PAPER FIBRE PLANTS. 



125 



the effect which is seen in these figurative yarns. The yarn, when 

 stretched, has been pressed upon with a black colouring matter at 



Fig. 85. Ordinary white weft yarn (spotted). 



regular intervals. Any other colouring matter than black can be used. 

 These are known as " spotted " yarns. 



PAPER FIBRE PLANTS. 



THE vegetable kingdom has been keenly searched for fibres that 

 could be utilised in the manufacture of paper. The Egyptians were 

 early in the field of discovery, and used the cellular tissue of the 

 Papyrus antiquorum of the Nile for writing on. Many British fibrous 

 plants are suitable for paper-making ; those of other countries have 

 generally been preferred for this purpose. 



The following are the principal plants that have been used for 

 paper-making : 



The Common Reed (Phragmites communis), the stalks of which 

 are prepared by immersing them in a solution of boracic acid, 

 and afterwards removing the acid by washing. 



Cotton Plant. The " bark," after separation from the stalks by 

 crushing, is carded and heckled. In addition to being used for paper, 

 the fibres have been spun into threads, twine, cordage, ropes, wadding, 



