How to Make Paper and Ribbon Curls

Use a pencil or pen to make paper curls. To do this, use scissors to cut strips of paper (if you have not already done so). Press the end of the strip to the side of the pencil and start twisting the pencil. It may be helpful to hold the end of the strip in place with your thumb and index finger. When you get to the end of the strip, release your thumb or finger, and you will have a beautiful curl.

Use the edge of the table to make whole sheets of paper curl. Lay the paper on the table and place the palms of your hands on the paper. Pull the paper off the edge, applying pressure as you go. This technique works well for loose curls.

Use a scissor blade to make paper or ribbon curls. Open the scissors and hold the end of a strip of paper or ribbon between the thumb and the side of the blade. Pull the strip of paper with the other hand, in a firm, brisk movement. The scissor technique does not work well with all paper or ribbon, so do no use this technique with paper or ribbon that does not lend itself to the brisk movement required.

Use a cardboard tube to make ribbon curls. Recycle tubes from gift wrap or paper towel to curl wire ribbon. Draw one end of the ribbon between the tube and your thumb, then wrap the ribbon around the tub. Continue wrapping the ribbon in a downward motion. When you reach the end of the ribbon, release your thumb and pull the tube out of the curl. The release motion is similar to that of making a spiral curl with a curling iron.