For the love of paper don't ask me why I didn't know of this place before, seriously don't. I only found about it last week when Lynne (whom I've never met) ask me on FB, if I knew were to find "zaansch bord." Of course I didn't, but loving all sorts of adventures and errands that take me "to infinity and beyond" I found myself here.
This is seriously the most incredible place I've visited in a long time, and even if you're not crazy about paper (I couldn't think why, but OK), this place is worth the 20 mins ride from Amsterdam (by car), just to see a mill from 1692 (restored) and still running and making beautiful paper.
De Shoolmeester is the only paper mill here in Holland (there used to be 60)!! The paper they make is guaranteed that it is made from cotton, flax and water from the ditch and it air dried. Though he does not guaranteed the same colors because they vary through batches.
This mill belongs to "De Zaansche Molen" a windmill society who in 1920 rescued this and 19 other mills in the area.
**Beware there are many pictures, and not in order of how paper is made!!
De Schoolmeester is locate at Guispad 3, 1551 SX Westzaan
It is open M-F from 10 to 4 and they charge 3.50euros
You can order paper by email: deschoolmeester@hetnet.nl
They ship all over the world!!
Thank you Lynne, for showing me the way!
Wishing you a weekend filled with wonderful adventures,
Giova
