[Antir_scribes] Watercolor paper experiment for Charters

[Jodie]

Just wanted to deliver the results of my experiment and wish to thank
everyone who offered me their suggestions and advice.  This was one of those
things where I really did want to try it so that I could report to my Barony
and Scribal Guild firsthand what the experiment showed.

I went to Staples with an original of a charter and two types of watercolor
paper (one smooth, one bumpy.)  Both papers seemed to copy OK, no jams, and
I was thinking it was a success.  But nope -- when I got home and decided to
touch them, the toner rubbed right off on both of them.  Apparently, water
color paper has some surface that toner won't stick to.  I don't know if
"all" watercolor paper acts this way but definitely the less expensive 90 lb
cold press does.

Next experiment, I went to OfficeMax since I saw that they carried
Astroparche 65 lb cover (only in 8 1/2 x 11 though.)  so I again copied my
original of my charter on the Astroparche and the copies came out
beautifully.  The 65 lb is much sturdier than the sample I'd seen at Sept.
Crown and I think it's a very doable option.  It said it was acid free and
lignon free so I plan on ordering some of this for our Baronial Charters.  I
really had hoped for watercolor paper but when having to deal with copy
machines and toner, I guess we're limited to what will copy.

Thanks again for everyone's input.

Anne Brynley
Dragon's Laire