Butten

Butten, a relatively uncommon word, most frequently refers to a type of paper. Specifically, it denotes a type of laid paper often used in bookbinding, printing, and for artistic purposes like drawing and watercolor.

Laid paper, unlike wove paper, has a distinct texture of parallel lines created by the manufacturing process where the pulp is laid onto a screen with visible wires. Butten paper inherits this characteristic. The "Butten" designation often, though not always, implies a paper of high quality, durability, and a pleasing texture to the touch. The precise characteristics, such as weight, color, and the exact pattern of the laid lines, can vary between different types and brands of Butten paper. It is valued for its aesthetic appeal and its suitability for traditional printing methods and fine art applications. The term is also sometimes used historically in relation to paper mills and paper manufacturing processes, though this usage is less common in modern contexts.