Traditional English paper-cutting in Grade Three.

Paper-cutting is one of the most popular folk arts in China. According to archaeology, its history can be traced back to the 6th century AD, but it is thought that it actually started hundreds of years earlier. Paper-cutting is often used in religious ceremonies, decoration and plastic arts.

In the past, people used to make common paper into physical images and portraits with different shapes, and then buried them with the deceased or burned them at funerals. This custom is still obvious sometimes outside China. Paper-cutting art is generally symbolic and part of this ceremony; In addition, paper-cutting is also used as a sacrifice and artifact.

Because its materials seem easy, the cost is low, the effect is obvious, and it is widely used and popular; Because it is most suitable for rural women's leisure production, it can be practical and beautify their lives. Paper-cutting can be seen everywhere, and even different local styles have been formed. Paper-cutting not only shows the aesthetic taste of the public, but also grasps the deep social psychology of the nation. It is also one of the most distinctive folk arts in China, and its modeling features are particularly worth studying.

Nowadays, paper-cutting is more used for decoration. Paper-cutting can be used to decorate walls, doors and windows, Zhu Fang, mirrors, lamps and lanterns, etc. It can also be used to decorate gifts, and even paper-cutting itself can be given to others as a gift. People used to make paper-cut embroidery and painting art models.

Paper-cutting is not made by machine but by hand. There are two common methods: scissors and a knife.