If you’ve ever admired a classic mid-century chair—like Hans Wegner’s famous Wishbone—you’ve seen Danish paper cord. It’s that distinctive, honey-coloured woven seat that looks both incredibly organic and perfectly geometric.
Despite the name, it isn’t "just paper." It is a specialised industrial material with a history rooted in resourcefulness and a future rooted in sustainability.
It started as a wartime necessity
During World War II, traditional seating materials like seagrass and rattan became almost impossible to source in Europe. Danish designers and makers had to get creative. They turned to paper, which was still being manufactured locally.
They took high-quality, long-fibre paper, twisted it into three-ply strands, and discovered something surprising: it wasn't just a "substitute"—it was actually superior to the materials they had been using. It was stronger, more consistent, and didn't snag clothing. By the time the war ended, the "temporary" fix had become a permanent hallmark of Danish design.
How it's made (The "Paper" part)
The cord is made from FSC-certified paper (usually from Swedish pine or spruce trees). The paper is twisted so tightly that it becomes a dense, rounded cord.
- Waxed for durability: Most paper cord is lightly coated with a thin layer of wax. This makes it resistant to moisture and prevents it from becoming brittle.
- The Three-Ply Secret: It’s actually three separate strands of twisted paper wrapped around each other. This creates a tensile strength that allows it to hold the weight of an adult for decades without snapping.
Why it’s the "Gold Standard" for seating
There are three reasons why we choose to weave with paper cord at Crafta:
- The "Live-In" Comfort: Unlike timber or plastic, paper cord has a natural elasticity. Over the first few months of use, the seat "settles" and conforms to you.
- Thermal Neutrality: It doesn't get sticky in during hot summer or freezing in winter. It stays at a neutral temperature year-round.
- Longevity & The Patina: A professionally woven seat can last 30 to 40 years. It turns a rich golden amber over time—it doesn't "wear out," it "wears in."
How do you look after it?
Because it’s paper, people often worry about spills. The reality is quite practical:
- Spills: Liquids bead on the surface. Just dab (don't rub!) with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dusting: A quick vacuum with a brush attachment is all it needs.
- The No-No’s: Avoid harsh chemicals. Treat it like you would a high-quality wool jumper.
The Craft of the Weave
Weaving a single bench can take several hours of intense, physical work. At Crafta, we weave by hand, ensuring every line is straight and every "V" in the pattern is crisp.
The precision of the weave determines the longevity of the seat.
It’s a slow process, but it’s the difference between furniture that looks good in a photo and furniture that lasts forty years.
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