Hand Papermaking and Natural Dyes

Have you ever wondered how paper is made by hand? Are you interested in dip- or brush-dyeing paper with naturally-derived colorants? Drop in any time during this open session at Historic Rittenhouse Town to observe hand papermaking in action, to try your hand at dyeing finished sheets, and to converse about these engaging and time-tested processes with staff from Common Press and visiting artist Emily Tipps. 

Located in the magnificent Wissahickon Valley Park, Historic Rittenhouse Town is the location of the first papermill in the United States. Founded in 1687 on a tributary of the Wissahickon Creek by David Rittenhouse’s father, the site of the Rittenhouse papermill is an important Philadelphia landmark. Visitors can see the creek and explore the museum and gallery in the historic homestead building. The gallery currently features the Paper First exhibit. Curated by the Delaware Vallery Guild of Bookworkers, this exhibit includes the work of 10 contemporary American artists who use papermaking in their work, including the work of Emily Tipps.