Making recycled paper is messy. It is also a lot of fun. Someone will have to use a food processor and an electric iron. Both can be dangerous. So make sure that you get help on today's project because it is a big one. It is best to do this with some friends and family. That way you can spread the mess and the fun around.

WHAT YOU NEED:
2 full newspaper pages torn into 2-inch squares
food processor
2 tablespoons white glue
2 or 3 cups water
sink with 4 inches water
old panty hose
coat hangers
electric iron

OPTIONAL:
insect screen
strainer
food coloring
dryer lint

You're going to first make the frames that you'll use to make paper with. Undo the coat hanger and use the wire to make a flat square about 6 by 6 inches big. Stretch one leg of the panty hose over it. Take your time; it could snag. If you put tape on the ends of the wire, it will snag less. Make sure it is tight and flat.

Tie knots in the hose. Use the other leg for another piece of paper. You will need one frame for every piece of paper you make. You might want to make more than one or two.

Put a handful of the paper and some water into the food processor. Close the food processor and turn it on high. Keep adding paper and water until you have a big gray blob. You may have to add a little more water to keep things moving smoothly. Keep the food processor on until all the paper has disappeared. Then leave it on for 2 whole minutes.

Put the glue in the sink water and add all of the paper pulp you just made. Mix it really well. Use your hands.

Mix up the sink water again and then scoop the frame to the bottom of the sink. Lift it real slow. Count to 20 slowly while you are lifting. Let the water drain out for about a minute. Mix up the sink every time you make a new piece

Try other things like the screen or a strainer. Try adding lots of food coloring, or lint, or leaves, to the food processor.

Now you have to hang the frames on a clothesline or put them out in the sun. Wait until they are completely dry with no dampness at all. You Can then gently peel off the paper.

Have a grown-up use the iron - set on the hottest setting - to steam out your paper. You Can keep making paper until the pulp is all strained out of the sink.

See how strong your paper is. Trim it with scissors. Write on it. It is strong.

P.S. Don't be fooled. When a bag or a box says that it is 100% recyclable that means that you can recycle it. It does not mean that it is made out of recycled paper.