What does the deckle portion of the mold determine in paper-making?

The deckle portion of the mold plays a crucial role in determining the shape and size of the sheet of paper during the papermaking process. This is because the deckle sets the boundaries for the pulp as it is poured into the mold. The liquid pulp fills the area defined by the deckle, so its dimensions directly influence the final dimensions of the paper. By controlling the deckle, papermakers can create sheets of varying sizes, which is important for producing different types of paper for various applications.

The other options address aspects that are not directly influenced by the deckle. While the color and texture of the paper relate to the materials and fibers used, thickness is more about the amount of pulp used rather than the mold itself. Absorbency pertains to the characteristics of the felt used in the processing stage rather than the specifics of the deckle. Thus, the correct answer highlights the significant role of the deckle in defining the physical dimensions of the final paper product.