Abstract: A product and process of making an absorbent paper article such as paper products, towels, napkins and the like is disclosed. In the invention, one may supply a single furnish, or slurry, of cellulose fibers. Then, it is possible to separate or fractionate the slurry into at least two portions based upon fiber length in the slurry. Fines are employed in the process of manufacturing the products, and fines are specifically incorporated into an inner layer of the final paper products. Fines, short fibers, and/or fibrils are used in the process so they may contribute in a positive manner to the final paper product, rather than acting in a negative manner as a chemical “sponge” or waste material. This use of fines in the inner layers of the product reduces the manufacturing cost and waste produced in the process. A soft paper product with good strength characteristics results from the process.

Abstract: A product and process of making an absorbent paper article such as paper products, towels, napkins and the like is disclosed. In the invention, one may supply a single furnish, or slurry, of cellulose fibers. Then, it is possible to separate or fractionate the slurry into at least two portions based upon fiber length in the slurry. Fines are employed in the process of manufacturing the products, and fines are specifically incorporated into an inner layer of the final paper products. Fines, short fibers, and/or fibrils are used in the process so they may contribute in a positive manner to the final paper product, rather than acting in a negative manner as a chemical “sponge” or waste material. This use of fines in the inner layers of the product reduces the manufacturing cost and waste produced in the process. A soft paper product with good strength characteristics results from the process.