The Art of Decoupage - From Ancient Chinese Paper Cutting to Modern Design

Paper cutting or in Chinese Jianzhi (China being the country where paper was invented by Cai Lun during the Han Dynasty) is one of the earliest types of decoupage design. This art form has spread to other parts of the world, with different regions adopting and creating their own cultural styles. Paper cutting is also used in China to decorate doors and windows, they are sometimes called “Chuang Hua” (Flowers in the Window).

Papercuts can be based on a single image or there are symmetrical patterns that are usually created by folding sheets of paper into proportional shapes, and then cutting out various shapes. When unfolded, the paper creates a symmetrical design. Chinese papercuts are normally symmetrical. Chinese papercuts are usually in a series of even numbers of 2, 4, 24, etc.

Today, paper cutting is mainly used for decorative purposes. They are used for wall decorations, windows, doors, columns, mirrors, lamps and lanterns in homes and are also used on gifts or given as gifts themselves. There are two methods of making these cutouts: using scissors or the other method using knives. The scissors method involves several pieces of paper – up to eight sheets – being fixed together, then cut with sharp scissors. The knife method involves fixing layers of paper on a relatively soft surface (any softer material that can be cut). The artist cuts the motif into the paper with a sharp knife, held vertically. More gifted artists can even cut different designs freely, without stopping.

Decoupage nowadays encompasses a large number of very diverse themes that require few tools and materials. All you need is training and inspiration. Here are some other interesting things you can do:
The first of the projects uses paper cutouts to create simple decorative paintings to beautify your home.

The second project uses cutouts to create unique prints on clothes.