The process of paper drying has been investigated on an experimental basis. The mass transfer coefficient through rough, permeable paper drying fabrics has been shown to be considerably reduced below that from an open surface by between 60-75%, whilst the composition of the paper sheet and increases in felt tension were found to have a minor effect on the observed drying rates (<10%). The turbulence data for the smooth curved hill arrangement supported the prevailing literature in terms of both skin friction coefficient and velocity profiles. The findings of this study have been applied in a mathematical model, relating key operating conditions to achievable drying rates, and highlight the opportunity for the reduction of energy consumption in paper drying.