Hemp Paper

When the population began to expand and when the benefits of literacy were gradually realized, a new middle-class developed. They were literate and became much of the driving force for commerce and industry. They found value in and produced a demand for books of all sorts. This is turn created a demand for the paper to make the books. Gorsen was well situated to take advantage of the demand.
Most paper in the area is produced using hemp fibers. The long stalks are harvested, then soaked for several days before being pounded, usually with water-driven hammers, to separate the long bast fibers from the inner pulp. The bast fibers are spun into yarns which become ropes and fabric, but the inner pulp is transformed into paper.
The pulp is washed in large quantities of water, for the highest quality of paper, this process is repeated to extract as much foreign material as possible, including bits of leaf or bast fiber.  Depending on the desired final result, the mix may be treated to produce a light or white product. 
This wet pulp is constantly stirred while frames are dipped into the mix. The frames collect a portion of the fibers on their screens and the water is pressed out. The pressing can be repeated as needed until the desired thickness is achieved. Then comes the drying process, where any remaining moisture is evaporated.  The dried sheets are removed from the screens and generally finished by the application of some sort of sizing depending on expected future use. The written word requires different treatment of the paper than does the printed word.
The paper produced in Gorsen is considered by most to be the best available and trade is brisk. The homes and workshops produce fancy paper, large sheets, small sheets, thin and thick varieties, white, tan and brown versions.

Properties

Physical & Chemical Properties

Generally produced as thin, flat sheets of various sizes. Suitable for writing, wrapping, and drawing.

Origin & Source

Primarily made from the inner fibers of the hemp plant.

Type

Organic

Odor

None, although the production process can be a bit stinky

Taste

None

Color

Ranges from white to a tan or light brown