The two folds used for this workshop will be briefly demonstrated. There will be time for participants to create one or two cut paper designs.
The cut paper drawing workshop begins with learning about the positive shape and negative space. The first design will start with a symmetrical design using a single fold; you can start with a square, rectangle, or circle paper. The next example will show several patterns created with multiple folds in the paper. Students will utilize folded paper techniques to create designs with a repeated pattern created from the relationship between the positive and negative shapes. Learning to see what spaces are positive forms (the paper itself) and what areas are negative forms (what is cut away) is the first step in creating a cut paper drawing. Also learning how to keep the overall design connected together in one sheet of paper. Students will use their own imagery inspired by natural forms to make two or three designs using symmetry and repeated patterns.
Cutting through multiple layers of paper requires good scissors and/or a sharp blade.
Learning to use a craft knife such as an X-Acto knife is a skill that takes some practice, especially when cutting the multiple layers of paper, and when cutting curves and more intricate shapes.
Take care to always be aware of where your fingers are when using scissors or a craft knife. Never use a craft knife with the blade moving towards your hand, hold the paper down opposite from the blade always cutting away from your hand.
The techniques discussed are some that Bobbie Ann Howell uses in her own artwork and are just one of many options in this type of art form that has a rich traditional and contemporary history. Nearly every culture and many art forms employ pierced designs. There is a long history of traditional cutwork art forms such as Indonesian shadow puppets, Mexican Papel Picado, German (Scherenschnitte), Polish (Wycinanki), Danish, Chinese, Korean (Hanji paper design); Japanese cut paper and stencil fabric design; and many more. Silhouette or profile art is also a traditional art form that often utilizes paper.
Suggested Materials
Paper. A lightweight craft or sketch paper or drafting vellum. Copy paper will work but it is a bit thicker for the multiple folded patterns. Bobbie Ann uses Bienfang Graphic 360 Marker Paper for my folded patterns. It is a15 lb. lightweight cotton paper that is strong and holds the cut shapes very well.
Scissors. A good scissors with a sharp point are best (all patterns may be cut with scissors alone)
X-acto or craft knife, with a new sharp blade (optional)
Extra blades
Self-healing cutting mat (optional). Do not cut directly on your table surface.
Pencil. 2H pencil. A harder lead smears less, but any graphite pencil will do.
Eraser
Ideas. Do you have a favorite Nevada plant, butterfly, bird, bug, etc? Many things in nature are of a symmetrical design, meaning both sides are the same. Nature also has a wide range of geometric and organic elements that can inspire your work.