How to Make Quilling Paper

Paper Strips

Paper quilling is an art that requires very little expense. Paper quilling is a great way to make greeting or Christmas cards, paper flowers, and other hand-made gifts. The main items needed are thin strips of paper. The paper must be precision cut to maintain the quilling shapes made by hand. You can make your own quilling paper if it is hard to find quilling supplies in your area.

Things You'll Need

• 8 1/2 by 11 inch sheets of colored paper
• Paper trimmer
• Ruler with 1/4 and 1/8 inch markings

Instructions

1. Measure and mark a sheet of paper with 1/8, 1/4, 1/2 inch or other desired width for your quilling paper strips. You may want to use different sizes depending on what type of quilling project you are doing.

2. Place the sheet of paper on the flat bed of the paper trimmer.

3. Line the paper up so that it is even along the entire length. Some paper cutters have markings on the tool to help you line up your paper. These are very useful and will make your quilling project a lot easier.

4. Slide the cutter mechanism and cut the paper strip. Take your time to ensure the strip doesn't have any jagged edges or tears. That will affect the overall quality of your quilling project.

5. Check to see if the first strip is the size that you need. It is a good idea to cut more strips than you need for your quilling project. Store the strips in a container to keep them from being crushed. Now you are ready to begin making hand-made quilling crafts.

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Tips & Warnings

• You can measure, mark with pencil and cut with a pair of scissors if desired. It is a tedious job.

• Some crafters run paper through a straight cut shredder. You are taking a chance on uneven or ruined paper strips.

• You must have accurate, even cuts or your quilling shapes will be awkward and have bent portions.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Read this Article in Portuguese
• Fiskars