Chinese Paper Cut Patterns Views
Chinese Paper Cutting or Jianzhi (Chinese: 剪纸, jiǎn zhǐ) is the first type of papercutting design, since paper was invented by Cai Lun in the Eastern Han Dynasty in China. The art form later spread to other parts of the world with different regions adopting their own cultural styles. Because the cut outs are also used to decorate doors and windows, they are sometimes referred to chuāng huā (窗花), meaning Window Flower.
From the 7th to 13th century, paper cutting became popular especially during Chinese holiday festivals. The art spread to the rest of the world in the 14th century. Throughout the Qing Dynasty many papercutting skills were developed including drafting and the use of smoked papers. By the end of the Qing ruling however, new art forms were being introduced. The Republic of China later tried to revive the art in the 1980s.[1]
Today, papercuttings are chiefly decorative. They ornament walls, windows, doors, columns, mirrors, lamps and lanterns in homes and are also used on presents or are given as gifts themselves. Entrances are decorated with paper cut outs is supposed to bring good luck. Papercuttings used to be used as patterns, especially for embroidery and lacquer work.
Chinese Paper Cuts have been a traditional form of decoration in China at Chinese New Year and all year round for thousands of years. Why not have a go with the kids? This craft is best for older children, as they will need to plan their design carefully and use sharp scissors to cut it out successfully. Try a symmetrical pattern by folding the paper and taking snips out of it, or design something a little more advanced...
Chinese Paper Cut Patterns Images
