<p>Disclosed is a process for fractionating cellulosic fibers that is effective to result in cellulosic fibers that exhibit desired properties such as fiber length and fiber coarseness values. The fractionating process is quite efficient and has been found to produce cellulosic fibers that are more homogeneous in their properties as compared to the starting mixture of cellulosic fibers. Also disclosed is a handsheet prepared from the fractionated cellulosic fibers for use in disposable absorbent products.</p>