Newspaper wood is an upcycled material created by compressing and binding layers of old newspapers, reversing the usual process of turning wood into paper.
It can be cut, milled, sanded, and finished like timber, with unique “grain” patterns formed by the inked layers.
Currently at demonstration and prototyping stages, it is used in furniture, accessories, and decorative items as a circular alternative to wood.
Collected newspapers are sorted and individually coated with adhesive—often solvent- and plasticiser-free for sustainability.
Sheets are layered or tightly rolled, then pressed under high pressure to form logs, boards, or sheet-like “timbers.” After curing, the logs are cut into planks and processed with standard woodworking techniques. Sanding reveals striking grain-like patterns from the ink and paper layers.
Industrial production uses custom compression machinery for uniform density and strength, with minimal waste. This process avoids cutting new trees and bypasses energy-intensive recycling into pulp.
The material can be cut, drilled, nailed, and shaped like MDF or softwood, with strength comparable to other engineered woods.
Its surface reveals decorative “grain” lines, sometimes even legible text, offering a natural aesthetic without additional printing. Lightweight and dimensionally stable, density can be adjusted by adhesive choice, layering, and pressure. Fire resistance is higher than raw newsprint due to compaction, though not equivalent to dedicated fire-rated panels. Moisture resistance is limited and depends on finishes, making it best suited for indoor or protected applications.
Newspaper wood directly upcycles paper waste, diverting millions of newspapers from landfill while reducing reliance on virgin timber. Adhesive systems are increasingly water-based, solvent-free, and formaldehyde-free, ensuring low emissions and non-toxic production.
Compared to forest logging and wood processing, its carbon footprint is significantly lower. The material extends the lifecycle of paper from days to decades, keeping resources in circulation. At end-of-life, newspaper wood can be recycled, repurposed, or safely incinerated with minimal impact.
Furniture: Chairs, tables, cupboards, shelves, and modular units for home, office, and retail.
Décor and accessories: Wall panels, picture frames, clocks, lamps, jewellery, and display objects.
Craft and prototyping: Eco-friendly models, mock-ups, and educational kits for design studios.
Retail displays: Lightweight signage, stands, and plinths for exhibitions and pop-ups.
Architectural surfaces: Partition walls, decorative panels, and interior inlays.
Collaborations: Artistic projects, hybrid materials, and circular economy prototypes with global design studios.