Papel Picado tutorial, the traditional Mexican folk art of paper cutting, has long been admired for its intricate designs and vibrant colors. These delicate paper decorations are often used to add a festive touch to celebrations and events. If you’ve ever wondered how to create your own papel picado, look no further. In this tutorial, we will guide you through making simple papel picado while answering common questions about its creation and usage.

How to Make Simple Papel Picado: Unraveling the Art of Papel Picado: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

• Materials You’ll Need:
• Colored Tissue Paper: Choose a variety of colors to add visual appeal to your papel picado.
• Scissors: Sharp, precision scissors are essential for intricate cutting.
• Pencil: For sketching your design on the tissue paper.
• Craft Knife: Optional but useful for more intricate designs.
• Cutting Mat: To protect your working surface while using the craft knife.
• String or Yarn: For hanging the finished papel picado.

Step 1: Choose Your Design

Start by deciding on a simple design for your papel picado. Common choices include flowers, hearts, and geometric patterns. Sketch your design lightly in pencil on a stack of tissue paper sheets.

Step 2: Cut the Tissue Paper

Carefully cut along the pencil lines using sharp scissors. For more intricate designs, you can use a craft knife on a cutting mat. Take your time and be precise, as neat cutting will enhance the final look of your papel picado.

Step 3: Create Repeating Patterns

Once you’ve cut out your initial design, use it as a template to create repeating patterns. Layer several sheets of tissue paper together and cut multiple shapes at once for efficiency.

Step 4: Fold the Papel Picado

To create a traditional papel picado look, fold the paper accordion-style. Hold the stacked sheets together and make small, even folds across the width of the paper. Secure the folded stack with a paperclip or binder clip at both ends.

Step 5: Cut Decorative Border

With the paper folded, cut small, decorative shapes along the edges of the folded stack. These shapes will form intricate patterns when the papel picado is unfolded.

Step 6: Unfold and Hang

Carefully unfold your papel picado to reveal the intricate design. Gently separate the layers to enhance the visual effect. Finally, thread a string or yarn through one of the cut-out shapes and hang your papel picado to display your beautiful creation.

How Does a Papel Picado Work?

Papel Picado works by utilizing the concept of negative space. The cut-out designs create intricate patterns and shapes when the paper is unfolded and hung. When light passes through these delicate cut-outs, it casts beautiful shadows and highlights the intricate details of the design, enhancing its visual appeal.

What Paper Is Used for Papel Picado?

Traditionally, papel picado is made using tissue paper, or papel de seda. Tissue paper is lightweight, easy to cut, and allows light to pass through, making it ideal for creating intricate cut-out designs. You can find tissue paper in various colors, enabling you to experiment with different combinations and patterns.

How Do You Fold a Papel Picado?

Folding papel picado is a crucial step in its creation, as it determines the final appearance of the design. Follow these steps for the traditional accordion-style fold:

Lay the Sheets Flat: Start by laying the cut tissue paper sheets flat on a clean, dry surface.

Make Even Folds: Hold one end of the sheets and make small, even folds across the width of the paper. The folds should be approximately 1 to 1.5 inches wide.

Secure the Folded Stack: Once you’ve folded the entire stack, secure both ends with a paperclip or binder clip. This will keep the sheets together while you cut the decorative borders.

By following these steps and experimenting with various designs and colors, you can create stunning papel picado decorations, adding a touch of traditional Mexican charm to any occasion. So, gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the art of papel picado!

If you need please see the Youtube video