The Crafter's Guide to Papercutting: The Complete Guide to Cutting Paper for Artworks, Greeting Cards, Keepsakes and More

Prelim s ( 5 p p ) I n troduct i o n ( 2 p p ) Papercutting is accessible to everyone and this book will aid you through your journey. Whether you want to create a greetings card for a special occasion, find out where to buy materials, or look further into the history of where papercutting came from, this book is a resource you will want to return to again and again. chapt e r o n e /Hi s to ry o f Pap e r c u tti n g ( 3 0 p p ) A brief history of the story of papercutting: where it came from and how it was adopted by the various cultures that made it their own. As specific examples this section will look at the following: Chinese papercutting Jewish papercutting (marriage certificates) Polish folk art Swiss/German papercutting (called "Scherenschnitte") North and South American papercutting British Victorian silhouettes contemporary Papercutting Artists This section showcases contemporary papercutting work. It's an inspirational visual library that allows the reader to see what can be done with the simple techniques explained in this book. chapt e r two/t o o l s a n d mat e r i a l s ( 4 p p ) All tools and materials are described and their usage in papercutting explained. Paper Different weights and textures, patterned papers, handmade papers How to choose which paper is right for a project Tools and equipment Cutting mats: different sizes and styles Scalpels: the different kinds and finding which is right for you Blades: the different sizes and styles, matching blades to scalpel handles Pencil: different sizes and styles Set squares: ideally with measurements Rulers: standard rulers, steel rulers, safety rulers (with non slip-handles or surfaces) Scissors: as an alternative to the scalpel; different types of scissors are examined Glues: glue sticks, double-sided tape, and photo-mount sprays. Not all glues are suitable for all papercut mounting and this is highlighted chapt e r t h r e e / T h e B a s i c s ( 4 p p ) This section explains the basics that apply to all papercutting and the safety techniques that should be applied to all projects. These include: Blade safety How to cut paper with a scalpel How to cut paper with scissors Page 3 Copyright A(c) 2010 Quarto Publishing plc How to transfer a template to your paper How to apply glues How to store and mount your work chapt e r f o u r / Pap e r c u tti n g T e c h n i q u e s ( 8 p p ) This section demonstrates the basic techniques used in the projects in Chapter Five. It gives step-by-step training examples and explains how to apply the techniques to papercutting. Folded design Accordion folds Cutting through multiple layers Intercutting - the process in which you cut into two pieces of paper at the same time, resulting in two perfectly opposite designs Freehand designs - where you just cut, there are no folds of structure Layered cut out design Positive and negative design Designs with lettering and numbers chapt e r f i v e / P r o j e c t s ( 4 0 p p ) This section applies the techniques (from the previous two chapters) in step-by-step projects. These allow the reader to develop their papercutting techniques and create beautiful paper-cut projects in the process. All these projects have templates so they can be re-created at leisure, allowing this book to be accessible to all crafting abilities. The projects include: Greetings card Accordion greetings cards Freehand paper-cut design Folded paper-cut design Card within a border Bird mobile Tea light holders (two templates) Tree decorations (two/three templates) Winter layered card Window displays Shadow puppets Intercut design (how to frame) Tags for presents Complicated larger cut-out design Built-up layered cut-out image Banners chapt e r s i x / T e m p l at e s ( 4 0 p p ) A selection of templates. These can be cut straight out of the book or traced/scanned onto paper. The templates will all be images designed by Emily Hogarth. Page 4 Copyright A(c) 2010 Quarto Publishing plc chapt e r s e v e n /De s i g n i n g yo u r o w n pap e r c u t ( 6 p p ) Reminders of what to look out for when designing your own paper-cut projects. These will include: Drawing on the back of the design Making sure the design connects together so it doesn't fall apart when finished Reminders to be experimental and explore all that has been learned R e s o u r c e s ( 2 p p ) Lists of suppliers and other resources where the tools needed for papercutting can be purchased. Names of inspirational books and papercutting artists to look out for, as well as useful websites. I n d e x a n d C r e d i t s ( 3 p p )

Artist Emily Hogarth has written the right craft book at the right time. The craft of papercutting is having a moment - Why? Papercutting is a craft for hard times. With just a cutting implement and a piece of paper, you can create a thing of beauty. Plus, papercuts have an irresistible graphic appeal. This is a well-thought-out and beautifully produced book that has a usefulness beyond its lovely projects. It begins with a whirlwind, worldwide illustrated history of papercutting and continues with a how-to guide for novices. There are tips on tools and materials, notes about paper choice, cutting advice for scissors or craft knife, info on how to transfer design to paper, single and multifold designs, layering and multicutting. Beyond the basics, the chapter on designing papercuts is chock full of practical advice and presents material I haven't seen before - such as how to get your head around backwards papercutting patterns (they are copied reversed onto the flip side of the paper). There's also a section about the importance of positive and negative design elements, which is the nitty-gritty of papercutting. Emily Hogarth's projects, which have heaps of personality and playfulness, form the core of the book. The projects have a contemporary feel, while taking on board traditional papercutting styles. Best of all, Emily has thought outside the box for her projects, not limiting her ideas to the usual 2-D cards and silhouettes. There are lots of 3-D and layered projects, and several projects make use of double-sided paper (a simple, but show-stopping trick). The zig-zag fold NYC skyline has wow factor, yet is achievable by relative newcomers to the craft. Nice. Each project has a step-by-step photo tutorial. A handy feature is the "Take Special Care" corner, which flags potential tricky spots. The back of the book consists of a template section. The brave can actually cut up the book. The timid and the reverent can photocopy or trace the designs. A nice feature: there are more templates than projects in the book. The "extras" refer you to similar projects in the book for how-to guidance. Digital papercrafters will find lots in Emily Hogarth's book that applies to their craft. Many of the design concepts - such as positive/negative and layering - apply to both hand-cut and machine-cut papercraft designs. And Emily's beautiful designs can supply inspiration.-Thepapercraftpost.blogspot.co.uk Paper cutting at its best, this fabulous book shows you how to do it. Even for beginners, this is an excellent book with clear photos and instructions. You'll learn basic techniques that you can use in projects. For those who have already delved into this popular craft, there are over 50 templates. The book includes a history of papercutting. The Getting Started section is good and I like the projects. This book covers layering, cutting, even shadow puppets. I love the use of colour in the projects too not to mention the design. Projects include greetings cards, botanical artwork, keepsakes, mobiles and more. This book offers many useful tips and has great features such as the backwards alphabet. Folds are clearly shown. There is a good showcase of artist works to inspire you to create unique projects. I would be happy to recommend this to anyone. -Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts The complete guide to cutting paper for art, greetings cards and keepsakes, this new publication gives you all the knowledge you need to get started, from basic techniques to creative step-by-step projects, and features beautiful projects with 50 templates for practice.-Simply Cards & Papercraft We've all heard of cutting paper, but who would have thought it make such lovely embellishments as cupcake decorations and gift tags? Anyone can try it, the equipment is cheap and the results are stunning. This lovely book introduces us to an amazing craft and shows how to create exquisite works of art. Beginners can start with the basics and experts will be motivated by inspirational projects.-Machine Knitting Monthly Most of us will be familiar with the work of Rob Ryan and possibly Beatrice Coron, both expert paper cutters. This book is taking this interest in the art form of Papercutting and introducing the reader to its basic concepts. The history of Papercutting is explored in relation to current artists and plenty of pieces are shown throughout in exquisitely detailed illustrations. All the tools of the trade are given and many of these materials you probably already have (though a craft knife is a must, unsurprisingly). Techniques are explained for the best results and examples of different kinds of work support this. For the best paper cutters, pre-drawn designs are not required but, for the rest of us, there is a series of projects and templates. They range from very simple to more complicated but, by using the techniques described, step by step instructions will have you mastering intricate designs. I loved this book, for the beautiful artwork contained within it and for the promise that it could all be achieved by me.-Workshop On The Web This is an introduction and complete guide to cutting paper for artworks, greeting cards and keepsakes. Paper-cutting crafts appeal to a wide audience and anyone can try it. The equipment required is relatively inexpensive and the results are stunning. Ideal for beginners, this title includes everything you need to get started, from the basic techniques to creative step-by-step projects, but also progressive techniques and inspirational projects plus 50 specially commissioned templates.-Craft Focus Emily Hogart is an Edinburgh based paper-cut artist and illustrator whose work has appeared on many greetings cards and prints. In this user-friendly book she shares her knowledge and ideas to help even the most artistically challenged of us to make beautiful cards and pictures. You'll find a host of information about papercutting, its history and techniques, as well as step-by-step projects and templates to use. With a wide range of makes this book will appeal as much to the advanced paper-cutter as to the beginner.-Handmade Living The type of crafts I love best are the ones that give the crafter the opportunity to do a lot with a little, and preferably to recycle something that might otherwise be thrown away. Papercutting fits the bill here: all you need is paper, scissors and a craft knife to create magical works of art. Papercutting hooked me into its web at an early age and has lately been neglected in favor of the type of papercrafts that involve spending a considerable amount of money. This book shows you how to be your own die cutter, from a brief chapter about its history around the world to what you need to get started. This is not much, and it includes tips on handling your tools and the best way to begin, including choosing papers, using templates, finishing off your work, etc. Then it is on with the projects, which constitute most of this book, but with a difference. Instead of tracing, photocopying or scanning and printing (although you can also do all of this) this is a book with the actual printed sheets at the back, ready to use. There are fifty sheets of good quality card to cut out and use complete with colored fronts and backs (some of them patterned) and ranging from simple beginners pieces to the more complex. The projects tell you what you need to obtain and include some illustrated stages as well as a photo of the finished piece. I particularly liked the way it highlighted the most difficult places to cut and why. This is so useful and not always obvious at first glance. There are cards, a shadow puppet theater, mobile, cupcake cases, bunting, window decorations, silhouettes and more. Most are general purpose but a couple are for Christmas, although sadly none of them are cards. Styles vary to the layered variety reminiscent of Poland to the Swiss and German types associated with the Pennsylvania Dutch traditions and classic silhouettes. This is the sort of book that is a lot of fun and takes some time to get through so an excellent value for your money, especially as the end results are creations that are inexpensive to make but show off your skill. Who needs a die cutting machine anyway.-Myshelf.com This beautiful book is a complete guide for cutting paper for artwork, greetings cards, keepsakes and more, and shows you how to create your own exquisite works of art. Beginners will have all the knowledge they need to get started, plus it's also a great resource for the more advanced paper cutter. Learn about the history of paper cutting and be inspired by the work from many international paper-cutting artists.-Papercraft Essentials

Artist Emily Hogarth has written the right craft book at the right time. The craft of papercutting is having a moment - Why? Papercutting is a craft for hard times. With just a cutting implement and a piece of paper, you can create a thing of beauty. Plus, papercuts have an irresistible graphic appeal. This is a well-thought-out and beautifully produced book that has a usefulness beyond its lovely projects. It begins with a whirlwind, worldwide illustrated history of papercutting and continues with a how-to guide for novices. There are tips on tools and materials, notes about paper choice, cutting advice for scissors or craft knife, info on how to transfer design to paper, single and multifold designs, layering and multicutting. Beyond the basics, the chapter on designing papercuts is chock full of practical advice and presents material I haven't seen before - such as how to get your head around backwards papercutting patterns (they are copied reversed onto the flip side of the paper). There's also a section about the importance of positive and negative design elements, which is the nitty-gritty of papercutting. Emily Hogarth's projects, which have heaps of personality and playfulness, form the core of the book. The projects have a contemporary feel, while taking on board traditional papercutting styles. Best of all, Emily has thought outside the box for her projects, not limiting her ideas to the usual 2-D cards and silhouettes. There are lots of 3-D and layered projects, and several projects make use of double-sided paper (a simple, but show-stopping trick). The zig-zag fold NYC skyline has wow factor, yet is achievable by relative newcomers to the craft. Nice. Each project has a step-by-step photo tutorial. A handy feature is the "Take Special Care" corner, which flags potential tricky spots. The back of the book consists of a template section. The brave can actually cut up the book. The timid and the reverent can photocopy or trace the designs. A nice feature: there are more templates than projects in the book. The "extras" refer you to similar projects in the book for how-to guidance. Digital papercrafters will find lots in Emily Hogarth's book that applies to their craft. Many of the design concepts - such as positive/negative and layering - apply to both hand-cut and machine-cut papercraft designs. And Emily's beautiful designs can supply inspiration.-Thepapercraftpost.blogspot.co.uk Paper cutting at its best, this fabulous book shows you how to do it. Even for beginners, this is an excellent book with clear photos and instructions. You'll learn basic techniques that you can use in projects. For those who have already delved into this popular craft, there are over 50 templates. The book includes a history of papercutting. The Getting Started section is good and I like the projects. This book covers layering, cutting, even shadow puppets. I love the use of colour in the projects too not to mention the design. Projects include greetings cards, botanical artwork, keepsakes, mobiles and more. This book offers many useful tips and has great features such as the backwards alphabet. Folds are clearly shown. There is a good showcase of artist works to inspire you to create unique projects. I would be happy to recommend this to anyone. -Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts The complete guide to cutting paper for art, greetings cards and keepsakes, this new publication gives you all the knowledge you need to get started, from basic techniques to creative step-by-step projects, and features beautiful projects with 50 templates for practice.-Simply Cards & Papercraft

Artist Emily Hogarth has written the right craft book at the right time. The craft of papercutting is having a moment - Why? Papercutting is a craft for hard times. With just a cutting implement and a piece of paper, you can create a thing of beauty. Plus, papercuts have an irresistible graphic appeal. This is a well-thought-out and beautifully produced book that has a usefulness beyond its lovely projects. It begins with a whirlwind, worldwide illustrated history of papercutting and continues with a how-to guide for novices. There are tips on tools and materials, notes about paper choice, cutting advice for scissors or craft knife, info on how to transfer design to paper, single and multifold designs, layering and multicutting. Beyond the basics, the chapter on designing papercuts is chock full of practical advice and presents material I haven't seen before - such as how to get your head around backwards papercutting patterns (they are copied reversed onto the flip side of the paper). There's also a section about the importance of positive and negative design elements, which is the nitty-gritty of papercutting. Emily Hogarth's projects, which have heaps of personality and playfulness, form the core of the book. The projects have a contemporary feel, while taking on board traditional papercutting styles. Best of all, Emily has thought outside the box for her projects, not limiting her ideas to the usual 2-D cards and silhouettes. There are lots of 3-D and layered projects, and several projects make use of double-sided paper (a simple, but show-stopping trick). The zig-zag fold NYC skyline has wow factor, yet is achievable by relative newcomers to the craft. Nice. Each project has a step-by-step photo tutorial. A handy feature is the "Take Special Care" corner, which flags potential tricky spots. The back of the book consists of a template section. The brave can actually cut up the book. The timid and the reverent can photocopy or trace the designs. A nice feature: there are more templates than projects in the book. The "extras" refer you to similar projects in the book for how-to guidance. Digital papercrafters will find lots in Emily Hogarth's book that applies to their craft. Many of the design concepts - such as positive/negative and layering - apply to both hand-cut and machine-cut papercraft designs. And Emily's beautiful designs can supply inspiration.-Thepapercraftpost.blogspot.co.uk Paper cutting at its best, this fabulous book shows you how to do it. Even for beginners, this is an excellent book with clear photos and instructions. You'll learn basic techniques that you can use in projects. For those who have already delved into this popular craft, there are over 50 templates. The book includes a history of papercutting. The Getting Started section is good and I like the projects. This book covers layering, cutting, even shadow puppets. I love the use of colour in the projects too not to mention the design. Projects include greetings cards, botanical artwork, keepsakes, mobiles and more. This book offers many useful tips and has great features such as the backwards alphabet. Folds are clearly shown. There is a good showcase of artist works to inspire you to create unique projects. I would be happy to recommend this to anyone. -Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts The complete guide to cutting paper for art, greetings cards and keepsakes, this new publication gives you all the knowledge you need to get started, from basic techniques to creative step-by-step projects, and features beautiful projects with 50 templates for practice.-Simply Cards & Papercraft We've all heard of cutting paper, but who would have thought it make such lovely embellishments as cupcake decorations and gift tags? Anyone can try it, the equipment is cheap and the results are stunning. This lovely book introduces us to an amazing craft and shows how to create exquisite works of art. Beginners can start with the basics and experts will be motivated by inspirational projects.-Machine Knitting Monthly Most of us will be familiar with the work of Rob Ryan and possibly Beatrice Coron, both expert paper cutters. This book is taking this interest in the art form of Papercutting and introducing the reader to its basic concepts. The history of Papercutting is explored in relation to current artists and plenty of pieces are shown throughout in exquisitely detailed illustrations. All the tools of the trade are given and many of these materials you probably already have (though a craft knife is a must, unsurprisingly). Techniques are explained for the best results and examples of different kinds of work support this. For the best paper cutters, pre-drawn designs are not required but, for the rest of us, there is a series of projects and templates. They range from very simple to more complicated but, by using the techniques described, step by step instructions will have you mastering intricate designs. I loved this book, for the beautiful artwork contained within it and for the promise that it could all be achieved by me.-Workshop On The Web