Deckle

/ˈdɛkəl/ noun

Definition

A removable frame used in papermaking to form sheets of uniform size and thickness.

Etymology

From German 'Deckel' meaning 'lid' or 'cover,' adopted into English during the 18th century as papermaking techniques spread. The frame 'covers' or contains the pulp.

Kelly Says

Every handmade sheet of paper has a slightly fuzzy, uneven edge called a 'deckle edge'—you can still see this effect in fancy stationery today, a direct legacy of medieval papermaking technology.

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