The art of papermaking, book printing and writing is a severely underrated craft that deserves more recognition. Luckily the Basel Paper Mill Museum exists to share the intricacies behind this practice. The museum began its life as a paper mill 500 years ago, and to this day still functions as one while it doubles up as a museum. This means that people can observe authentic, usable paper being produced before their eyes, paper which is then available to be bought in the museum shop.

But it gets better - a major draw of this museum is that it welcomes all visitors to get their hands dirty - literally! Visitors are invited to dip their hands into preprocessed pulp and experience making paper for themselves during one of the many demonstrations, workshops and programmes. They can also try their hand at marbling, and watch the paper emerge with a kaleidoscope of colours swirled mesmerizingly onto its surface. Quills, ink and instructions are available for visitors to try their hand at handwriting. You might recognise one of the fonts on display next to the ancient typewriter, the familiar Helvetica which appears on our screens daily. The process of making the material of Paper is now made immaterial material now made immaterial by its preservation in this paper mill.