Scores of our papers started out as something other than a tree growing in a forst. Many are made from highly renewable plants, some of which sound exotic (jute? kozo? hemp?) but are readily available and affordable. (Cotton is probably the most familiar of the tree-free fibers, so much so that we gave cotton its own section.)

Why are the "alternative" fibers considered eco-friendly? Take Mulberry fibers, for example. The fibers are taken from the bark of a living mulberry tree that continues to grow well after you’ve turned it into an invitation or block print. Used for generations as the primary source for Japanese papers, its extra-strong fibers are used to produce some of the most elegant stationery and artist papers in the world.

There are many alternative fiber papers available to those willing to step out of the box. Bamboo, cork, cotton, hemp, mulberry, jute and kozo are just some of the options available to you. When choosing paper for your next project, don’t be afraid to move out of your comfort zone and explore the myriad options available to you.