7 Reasons Why I Love Papyros Kiln Shelf Paper

I had the great privilege of working with the Techniglass engineers in 2010, just as they started to develop the kiln shelf paper that is now called PAPYROS. My job was to do test firings of each version of the paper, then report back to let them know in detail what the results were. I tested at least a dozen different versions and each one reacted slightly different in the kiln. It took several months before a final formulation was decided and the end result is nothing short of spectacular.

7 reasons why I love this paper and use it exclusively in my fusing studio.

1. It has a flip side. This kiln shelf paper has a smooth side and a subtly textured side. Giving me the opportunity to choose the texture that best suits the art piece I’m creating.
2. It’s easy to cut and shape. I can use scissors or a utility knife to cut and shape the paper to the exact size I need for my project. This reduces waste and keeps the cost as low as possible.
3. Fire this paper more than once. Papyros is sturdy ceramic based kiln paper that does not turn to dust after one firing. If I’m careful, I can lift my fused piece off the paper without damaging it (it’s easy to nick it with a finger nail). Then delicately place my next project back on the pre-fired paper, I can usually get two or sometimes three firings from the same sheet.
4. Does not turn to dust. This paper is so much easier and safer to clean up after it is used up. I simply carry my kiln shelf over to the trash then slide the used paper into the bin, wearing a NIOSH-approved dust mask of course. A vacuum is not required.
5. No paper residue stuck to the bottom. My favorite fusing level is ‘Contour Fuse’ at 1370°F (745°C) and I have never had Papyros residue stick to my glass when firing under 1400°F (745°C). Occasionally, when I’m firing Opal glass containing a lot of white, to full fuse 1425°F (775°C) or deep fuse 1470°F (800°C), I will find some paper residue stuck to the bottom. This residue usually cleans off very easily (depending on the glass). Whenever possible, I like to use a thin piece of clear as the bottom layer of my project, then stack my opal glass on that. This solves the issue completely.
6. It can take the heat. Techniglass rates this paper to withstand temperatures of 1600°F (875°C) and that means it can be used in some casting molds as well (depending on the shape).
7. The edges never curl. I have fired a circle design on a square piece of Papyros and the entire paper remained flat, including the corners, the entire time.

We love Papyros paper so much that we have added it to our online store. We have 2 sizes available. The 13” (33cm) diameter circle is the one we use most our studio, it fits perfectly in our medium sized kilns that have a 13” (33cm) diameter kiln shelf. This size is very economical because if we’re careful, we can get two or even three firings from a single sheet. The other size we have is the Crafter Roll that is 20-1/2” (52cm) wide by 82 feet (25m) long. It is packaged in a convenient dispensing box that makes it easy to strip out only what you need. The dispensing box keeps your paper clean and damage free for long term storage. 

We will be adding other sheet and roll sizes to our store in the near future. If you are looking for the 20-1/2” (52cm) square sheet packets (5 or 10 sheets per pack) or one of the studio rolls let us know and we’ll get it for you.

Papyros is on SALE until the end of December 2020

If you have used a Kiln Shelf Release Paper, please leave a comment below with your experience. Be sure to mention the brand name of the product that you used.

Click on the image below to take a look at Papyros Kiln Shelf Paper in the Art-Glass-Love fusing store.