All construction papers whether it is use by school children or animators and artists, have their origin in the late 19th century when the industrial technology of wood pulp manufacturer and synthetic organic dyes met. Mechanically and chemically pulped soft fibers were then made largely in the 20th century. Construction paper was linked to a type of art educational paper as well as artist’s paper. This paper is best for pencil, crayons, watercolor and charcoal.

Sugar paper or construction paper as what we call it, is a type of coarse colored paper. It is made up of pulp which is a combination of hot water and wood chunks. To create a thicker consistency of the pulp, manufacturers add recycled paper and are later dyed to give it color. To remove the water so that the end-product becomes less shiny, less mushy and more paper-like, the pulp mixture is placed over a wire conveyor belt. Afterwards, it is placed over a big heated barrel wherein the remaining water is dried and the result is the construction paper. This is then placed into a feeder which cuts the paper to large sheets. The large sheets are then cut into smaller pieces and bagged into plastic containers, usually in sheets or bound into pads, ready to be sold in the market. Construction papers are generally rough and unfinished due to the nature of key ingredients used in producing it.

This type of paper is commonly used in art works or projects of school children. Animators and artists such as Abraham Walkowitz and Robert Motherwell used construction papers in their works. This may also be utilized in projects that call for sketching and making collages. In addition, construction papers are perfect base material for picture mounting, gift tags, napkin rings, bookmarks, paper sculpture, masks and many others. The best thing about this kind is that users will not have to shade it because it is produced in a variety of colors which may include pastels, fluorescent, two-toned marbled colors, and multicultural skin colors. Do take note that the colors in this type of paper quickly fades so be sure to look for the ones labeled “light stable” or “fade resistant” if you wish your projects to last. Another consideration when thinking of using this paper is that most of it is not flame-retardant. A special feature of the construction paper is its being compatible with your laser or inkjet printers.

In making those projects, do not hesitate to try out different materials. You may not succeed the first time but finding the right kind of paper will help you achieve your goal. Choose what is best and explore the potentials of the paper. You will be surprised at the many possible things you can come up with a piece of paper in hand.