What is the couching process in paper-making?

The couching process in paper-making refers specifically to the transferring of wet paper sheets onto felt. This step is crucial as it allows the fibers of the sheet to further bond together and lose excess water. During the couching process, wet sheets are lifted from the papermaking screen and placed onto a felt surface, which helps absorb moisture and separates the sheets so they can dry properly without sticking together. This technique is vital in producing quality paper, as it contributes to the final characteristics of the paper, including texture and strength.

The other processes mentioned, such as watering plant fibers or drying paper sheets, do not accurately define couching. While these steps are important in papermaking, they occur at different stages and do not capture the essence of what couching involves. The shaping of paper edges likewise pertains to the finishing touches after the main papermaking process is completed, rather than the core activity of transferring the wet sheets. Thus, the correct choice emphasizes the critical act of placement that shapes the production of paper.