For Dutch designer Debbie Wijskamp, creating handmade peices begins with the material itself. Taking her cue from artisans worldwide who use found matter for making everyday objects, as well as from contemporary environmental designers such as Victor Papanek, William McDonough, and Tony Fry, Debbie began experimenting with making paper pulp from old newspapers, shortly after graduating from the Institute of the Arts in Arnhem.
Today she uses paper from a recycling plant to create earthy, textured vases and furniture, and because the entire process—from material, to mold, to finish—is completed by hand, each piece is truly one-of-a-kind.
Above: Debbie's designs, which are distributed through Serax, resemble heavy materials such as clay or concrete, but in reality are much more lightweight. And even though they are paper, they are waterproof.
Above: Occasionally Debbie also adds color, like tomato red or this vibrant chartreuse.
Above: Debbie's Large Paper Pulp Urns are available online through Klevering; 35€.
Above: in addition to earthy hues, the paper pulp vessels also come in black and white. A small Black Paper Pulp Vase is available through Between the Dog and The Wolf; £13.
Above: The French shop Colonel carries three sizes of Debbie's Paper Pulp Vases both online and at its Paris store; 15-35€.
Above: Weighted by water, this tall urn is sturdy enough for the large branches of a blooming magnolia.
Want to explore more creative uses for old print? Artist Cecelia Levy recycles old books as art in Garden Stories, Told in Paper.
Looking for more recycled designs? See all of our eco-friendly favorites at Remodelista.
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