The process of making papyrus was a deeply held secret of the Egyptians. They wanted the monopoly on the technique so they did not describe in any text how to go about making papyrus. However, scientists have discovered the most likely preparation technique by using materials only known in the ancient Egyptian world. The process occurred in these steps (following the graphic): 1) The papyrus product was obtained by tearing off the skin of the papyrus reed. --------> 2) The strips thus formed were then placed next to each other forming a single layer. --------> 3) More strip were added in a second layer, but crosswise, and with the use of some sort of glue to add strength. --------> 4) The resulting 'papyrus sheet' was then beaten and stretched. --------> 5) The papyrus was allowed to dry in the sun. The outer strips (beginning and end) were made lengthwise to avoid fraying.