Scherenschnitte Paper Cutting Craft

Scissors Cutting Craft brought to us by our Pennsylvania Dutch Ancestors
Historically paper cutting originated in China between 200 BC and 200 AD, and then it was seen in Asia and Turkey in the 16th century. It was brought over from Germany to America, known as Pennsylvania Dutch Colonial America in the 1700's and 1800's. You will see scherenschnitte in craft fairs in Pennsylvania as Mennonites and Amish used the art form to create love letters or love knots which became a part of their heritage.

Styles of Scherenschnitte
Many different styles of scherenschnitte that have been used all over the world as the Chinese art is Jianzhi; Japanese art is Kerie, a variation of origami, Kirigami and Monkiriinvolve folding and cutting paper. Papel picado Paper is the Mexican art of paper cutting. Scherenschnitte is German or Swiss art of paper cutting. Wycinanki is the polish version of paper cutting.

Silhouettes
Silhouette is paper cutting portraits or shadows onto black paper, used before there were cameras for photographs. Men were the first ones to use this craft standing on the streets they would cut out silhouettes for a penny to people passing by on the streets.

Silhouettes were also done in a photo studio by formally standing in front of a screen and light. In the 18th century english silhouettes of the time were painted, not cut. A life size shadow was made then reduced with an instrument known as a pantograph. Their skills were in painting they would use soot, lamp back on plaster or glass, and then would drag out essentials with diluted pigment.

Directions for a Scherenschnitte Wedding Announcement
Time, patience and a precision with a steady hand are the key elements to creating a scherenschnitte wedding announcement, as it is work of art. The supplies are inexpensive. The designs range from simple and small, to large and detailed. You can use various paper, colors, and put in a decorative frame to complement.

Supplies you need:
* Parchment Paper or wax paper for backing
* Small scissors (surgical scissors or embroidery scissors) or snipping tool
* X acto knife
* Clear Glue
* Hard surface for cutting

Designing your Project
Draw out a design, and trace on parchment paper. Depending on the design, you may have to fold the parchment paper. To prevent slipping, secure on all sides, cutting out the center part first. Punch a tiny hole through the area to be cut out, to insert blade. Cut out the space, feeding paper into the scissors and keeping the scissors moving in a steady motion with small cuts.

If you use an x acto knife, you may want to practice first, especially working on the curves as their tedious. Make sure you use enough pressure to work through two layers. Cut slowly keeping the design in mind. As you cut you may find it helpful to enclose the cutout portion with a sleeve or two pieces of paper. If dots, pick with pin, remove tape carefully looking for markings which have not been cut out are on the underside. Press your artwork flat inside of book.

Finishing your Project
Antiquing color or stain (optional), do lettering after antiquing or coloring and before mounting. A favorite saying or names can be added for pleasure. Position message under cutting and trace lightly. Coffee can be used for the Antiquing effect. If you frame your beautiful artwork use a glass frame because it will protect the artwork much better.

Scherenschnitte - copyright by Beth Gatewood 2007 all rights reserved

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