Crepe paper is a type of tissue paper that has been coated with sizing, a glue-like substance, and then creased to create gathers, giving it a crinkly texture like that of crepe. The creping process is done by a Yankee cylinder that scrapes the dry paper off the cylinder surface, and the crinkle is controlled by the strength of the adhesive, geometry of the doctor blade, speed difference between the Yankee and final section of the paper machine, and paper pulp characteristics. Crepe paper is also sold flat and used as a disposable tissue paper.
Here are some properties of crepe paper:
- It is among the lightest papers and is normally below 35 g/m2.
- The crêpe ratio reflects how much the paper has shortened during crêping. The figure is normally between 10 - 30%.
- Crêping is used to adjust the papers stretch and thickness, both of which have a marked effect on softness and absorbency.
Crepe paper is popular for streamers and other party decorations, as well as for making props and costume accessories. It is also used in the paper flower industry, where it comes in a staggering array of options that the general public is unaware of. Crepe paper is manufactured around the world, and some of the most popular papers used by paper florists include German crepe paper, which is considered high quality and produced in an environmentally friendly way.
In summary, crepe paper is a type of tissue paper that has been coated with sizing and creased to create gathers, giving it a crinkly texture like that of crepe. It is used for party decorations, props, costume accessories, and paper flowers.