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For over 2000 years the manual craft of papermaking has been practiced all over the world utilizing a vabety of techniques. This review deschbes the evolution of hand papermaking and its cultural significance. Paper's evolution has been shaped by the structure and chemical composition of the fibers. Almost every aspect of modern papermaking technology has been foreshadowed by traditional practices. Such practices were passed down for many generations within families of papermakers. The main sources of cellulosic fiber evolved as the ancient craft migrated from its birthplace in China to Korea and Japan, the Islamic world, and then to Europe and America. Though most paper made today comes from automated, continuous production systems, handmade paper has enjoyed a resurgence, both as a traditional craft and as an art-form. In addition, traditional papermaking methods can provide insights to help in modern applications involving cellulosic fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a report from a November 14-15, 2013 conference in Heidelberg, Germany on the history of the production and usage of paper in the Middle Ages. Topics of presentations delivered included the digitization of Middle Ages manuscripts at the university library in Heidelberg, Germany, the methodology of paper production in the 15th century, and the history of European paper mills.