Original Crown Mill

Since 1870
The history of Crown Mill has its roots in the modernist spirit of the Renaissance. It all started in 1478 when Emperor Maximilian permitted the monks of La Hulpe Monastery in Belgium to build a mill on the banks of a tiny river known as the Argentine. Two centuries later, on the orders of King Charles II, this water mill became the Royal Mill for the production of writing paper. 1870 saw the arrival on the scene of our founder, Frédéric Pelletier. He opened a factory for writing paper and envelopes in Brussels, ordering from the Royal Mill a laid paper which was an authentic copy of the original handmade paper. And so “Original Crown Mill” was born.

But Frédéric Pelletier did not stop there. He was one of the first to create silk-lined envelopes that were packaged in intricately decorated luxury boxes imprinted with our decorative company label, created in true nineteenth-century style. His successors earned the privilege of supplying the Belgian Royal Family and some of the most illustrious families in Europe.

This tradition continues today, and Pelletier is proud to carry on the craftsmanship and quality that have made Original Crown Mill: The most distinguished writing paper in the world.

The three paper qualities:

Laid: The gold standard in the world of traditional paper. Lightly striated, this timeless paper is ideal for all traditional correspondence such as personalized stationery, social invitations, etc.

Smooth: This paper has a smooth natural matte surface, uniform color and durable weight. Contemporary in style, it assures a flawless finish on all your communication. 

Cotton: Original Crown Mill Pure Cotton paper has a natural, soft, felt finish that will bring an air of uncommon excellence to all your correspondence.