Papercutting is a versatile and rewarding hobby that involves creating intricate designs by cutting paper with precision tools. This art form offers numerous benefits, including stress relief, improved focus, and enhanced creativity. To get started, you’ll need basic supplies such as a cutting mat, art blade, and paper. Begin with simple designs and gradually progress to more complex patterns. Online tutorials and local workshops can provide valuable guidance for beginners. As you develop your skills, you’ll find papercutting to be a fulfilling creative outlet with endless possibilities.
Papercutting
as a hobby
AKA: Paper Cutting • Scherenschnitte
Reviewed by:
Categories: Paper Crafts
Related Hobbies: Kirigami
Helpful content to get started
The page is curated to inspire and help you get started with papercutting as a hobby.
Overwhelmed? Play a random video or podcast to start getting familiar with papercutting.
We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Always use your judgment. Refer to the listed resources for further research.
Videos
Short visual inspiration.
More videos
Podcasts
Play an episode while exploring the page.
More podcasts
The oldest surviving paper cut is from the 6th century CE, found in Xinjiang, China.
Terms
Basic lingo for orientation.
Papercutting Tools
- Craft Knife: A sharp blade used for cutting paper.
- Cutting Mat: A protective surface for cutting paper.
- Ruling Pen: A tool used to score lines in paper before cutting.
- Self-Healing Cutting Mat: A cutting mat with a layer that heals itself after cuts.
Cutting Techniques
- Intricate Cuts: Detailed and delicate cuts that require precision and skill.
- Layered Cutting: Creating multiple layers of paper that can be arranged to form a three-dimensional scene.
- Scoring: Creating shallow lines in paper before cutting to guide the blade.
- Silhouette Cutting: Cutting out shapes that leave a silhouette against a background.
Paper Types
- Cardstock: Thick paper is often used for papercutting projects.
- Construction Paper: Thicker paper with various colors.
- Specialty Paper: Papers with unique textures or patterns, such as metallic or textured paper.
Papercutting Styles
- Contemporary Papercutting: A modern style that incorporates a variety of techniques and materials.
- European Papercutting: A style often featuring silhouette cutting and layered designs.
- Traditional Chinese Papercutting: A style characterized by intricate designs and bold colors.
Other Terms
- Backlighting: Placing a light source behind a paper cut to create a dramatic effect.
- Motif: A recurring design element in a papercutting piece.
- Template: A pattern used to guide cutting.
Term Videos
First Steps
How to break the ice and make a start. One Aha! moment is all you need.
- A good first step is to start with paper and scissors, which you might already have, along with an easy how-to video.
- For the next step, you will need a cutting mat, an art blade, and a papercut template pad.
First Steps Videos
Papercut art can be used to decorate your home, adding a touch of creativity and personality.
Products
Essentials to have.
Product Demos
More product demos
How-Tos
Step-by-step tutorials.
How-To Videos
More how-to videos
Papercutting can be used to create a wide range of designs, from simple silhouettes to intricate landscapes.
Books
Get read-y.
Articles
Further reading.
audio and Video Articles
More video articles
Websites
Go-tos for information.
Paper Cutting Patterns and Templates
Website Previews
More website previews
Movies & TV
Nothing like a good film or a show for inspiration.
Movie and TV Trailers
More movie trailers
Papercutting has been used for ceremonial purposes and as a form of storytelling in various cultures.
FAQS
Get a clue.
Q: What tools do I need to start papercutting?
A: Basic tools include a cutting mat, a scalpel or craft knife, a metal ruler, and high-quality paper. Optional tools may include templates and scissors.
You can also start with just paper and scissors, which you might already have.
Q: What type of paper is best for beginners?
A: Start with medium-weight paper (around 160-200 GSM) that is easy to cut and holds its shape well. Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Paper is often recommended for paper cutting. Practice with plain or patterned paper before moving to specialty papers.
Q: What are some common themes or designs in papercutting?
A: Popular themes include nature (flowers, animals), geometric patterns, silhouettes, and personalized designs (names or quotes).
Q: What are the benefits of papercutting as a hobby?
A: Papercutting offers various benefits including enhanced creativity, improved focus and concentration, stress relief, and fine motor skill development.
Q: What is a self-healing cutting mat?
A: Self-healing cutting mats are durable surfaces made of layered PVC that protect your work area while allowing for precise cutting. They “heal” small cuts as the material’s molecules flow back together after a blade is removed. Although designed for longevity, they will eventually wear out due to frequent use, deep cuts, and other factors. To extend their lifespan, rotate the mat, avoid excessive heat, and use sharp blades.
FAQ Videos
More FAQ videos
Apps
Smart start.
App Trailers
More app trailers
Courses
Get smart.
Video courses and trailers
More video courses and trailers
Community & Near You
Get together.
Related Videos
Papercutting is a low-impact hobby that often uses recycled paper and minimal materials.
Tips
Additional advice for beginners.
Video Tips
Papercutting can be a meditative and calming activity, offering stress relief and relaxation.
Related Hobbies
Explore related hobbies.
Additional Information
Hobby attributes.
| Attributes | Value |
|---|---|
| Activities | |
| Fields | Arts, Crafts, Fashion and Beauty, History and Culture, Home and Interior Design, Sustainability |
| Locations | |
| Participants | |
| Skills | Attention to Detail, Concentration, Creativity, Cultural Awareness, Divergent Thinking, Fine Motor Skills, Hand-eye Coordination, Imagination, Mindfulness, Motor Coordination, Patience, Perseverance, Planning |
Feedback
We rely on your feedback.
Thank you!
We value your feedback.
Want to discuss something?
Overwhelmed? Play a random video or podcast.