What is the primary function of a mold in the paper-making process?

The primary function of a mold in the paper-making process is to serve as the bottom frame for making paper. The mold acts as a structure that holds the wet pulp mixture while allowing excess water to drain away. This frame is typically fitted with a screen that filters out the fibers and forms the basic shape of the paper sheet. By providing a defined area for the pulp to settle, the mold is essential to the formation of a cohesive sheet of paper.

While other aspects of the process involve different tools and techniques, such as creating deckle edges or supporting the sheet during drying, the core role of the mold is to establish the initial shape and guide the formation of the paper during the wet phase. Consequently, this foundational function of the mold is crucial in determining the characteristics of the final paper product.