Paper-cutting (China traditional handicraft)

Paper-cutting is one of the traditional handicrafts in China, which originated in the Han Dynasty. It is an art form of cutting paper into various shapes and patterns with scissors or carving knives. The history of paper-cutting can be traced back to more than 2000 years ago. It is an important part of China folk art and one of the important manifestations of China culture.

Paper-cut materials and tools

Paper is the main material of paper-cutting. Generally, red or black paper is used. Red represents auspiciousness and celebration, and black represents sacrifice and mourning. Paper-cutting tools are mainly scissors or meat cutters. Scissors are suitable for cutting simple shapes, and carving knives are suitable for cutting complex shapes.

Operation steps of paper cutting

The operation steps of paper-cutting are as follows:

1. Prepare paper and scissors or a meat cleaver.

2. Fold the paper into a multilayer rectangle, and the creases should be compacted.

3. Cut out basic shapes as required, such as circles, triangles, squares, etc.

4. Cut out various patterns on the basic shape with scissors or carving knives, such as flowers, birds, insects and fish.

5. Open the paper and show the paper-cut works.

Classification of paper cutting

According to the different production methods and styles, paper-cutting can be divided into many types, among which the following are representative:

1. Folk paper-cutting: It is one of the main forms of Chinese paper-cutting, which is characterized by simple shape, bright colors and auspicious meaning.

2. Palace paper-cutting: It is an advanced form of Chinese paper-cutting, characterized by exquisite modeling, smooth lines and soft colors.

3. Painted paper-cutting: It is a form of adding color to paper-cutting to make it more vivid and realistic.

4. Sticking paper-cutting: Sticking paper-cutting works on other objects, such as windows and walls, to increase the practicality and appreciation of paper-cutting.

The significance of paper-cutting

Paper-cutting is an important part of China folk art, which is not only an art form, but also a cultural expression and inheritance. Paper-cut works are auspicious and can be used to decorate homes and celebrate festivals, and can also be given as gifts to relatives and friends. Paper-cutting can also be used as an educational tool to let children know about China's traditional culture and folk art.