Two Rivers Paper Company

Two Rivers Paper Company is a UK-based heritage handmade rag watercolour paper manufacturing enterprise headquartered in Pitt Mill, Somerset, England, UK. Founded in 1987 (revival of historic Pitt Mill), the company operates 1 water-powered historic mill employing 5-15 master papermakers. Revenue of N/A (micro-scale, artisan). Private.

Core Business

Two Rivers Paper Company occupies a singular position as the United Kingdom's only remaining commercial-scale producer of traditional handmade rag watercolour paper. Operating from centuries-old Pitt Mill in Somerset, the company harnesses a restored water wheel to power the rag-beating process, faithfully replicating the organic fiber preparation methods of the early 19th century. The formulation uses pure cotton and long-fiber linen blends combined with natural Exmoor spring water to create sheets with irreplaceable organic tooth, random fiber distribution, and exceptional archival stability prized by the world's most discerning watercolourists.

Global Presence

Two Rivers serves a dedicated global following of elite watercolour artists and conservators through direct sales, with papers recognized by prestigious awards including the Heritage Crafts Maker of the Year (2019) and Made in Britain Award (2020). The company's apprenticeship program, supported by the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST), ensures craft continuity. In 2020-2021, responding to surging demand, the company expanded to a second vat room, effectively doubling output while maintaining uncompromising artisanal quality.

Key Strengths

Absolute UK market monopoly as the nation's only remaining commercial-scale handmade rag watercolour paper producer; authentic pre-industrial water-powered rag beating and Exmoor spring water manufacturing creating an irreplicable brand mystique; Heritage Crafts Maker of the Year (2019) and Made in Britain Award (2020) recognition providing institutional credibility; QEST-supported apprenticeship program ensuring craft knowledge continuity through trainee Zoe Collis; rare capacity expansion (2020-2021 second vat room) demonstrating commercial viability of heritage craft; each sheet uniquely formed by hand conferring genuine scarcity and premium artistic value. VerityRank Score of 89/100.