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Paper Cutting

Brief History

Paper was invented in China in 105 A.D. In northern China, papercuts have been traced to 207 A.D., and in 1959 papercuts dated between 514 and 551 A.D. were excavated in an archeological dig. By 1000 A.D., paper was widely substituted for silk as the medium for writing and painting.

Making paper is quite simple. Mulberry bark, rice straw, wood, cotton, or other fibrous materials are soaked in water and then beaten into a mash. This pulp is added to a large amount of water in a tub, and then lifted out on a screen. The water is pressed out, locking the fibers, and the paper is allowed to dry. Making paper can be a very enjoyable activity for children.