Quilling

Quilling is the art of creating delicate shapes from strips of paper. Coiled into letters, flowers, and other forms, the stylized paper transforms an ordinary card into a keepsake.

Quilling, or paper filigree, is the art of creating intricate shapes from strips of paper. The technique is simple: After a long, narrow ribbon of paper is rolled around a needlelike tool, the strip is slipped off, arranged with your fingertips into the desired shape, and then glued to a background of contrasting paper, fabric, or wood.

Quilled motifs such as flowers and hearts express sweet sentiments for Valentine's Day and Mother's Day, but they also add an elegant touch to cards for any occasion.

In this tutorial, we'll show you how to make the shapes necessary to create several types of quilled cards.

Step 1

•5/8-inch multicolor quilling paper (No. 356), $

5 for 100 pieces, from Lake City Crafts, quilling.com


•1/8-inch quilling paper in color of choice, $1.45 for 50 pieces, from Lake City Crafts, quilling.com (You can also use medium-weight paper, such as vellum or stationery)

•8 1/2-inch paper trimmer, $24.99, from Martha Stewart Crafts available at Michaels (You will need this if you are making your own quilling strips.)

•Round-headed pin

•Slotted quilling tool (No. 171), $3.75, from Lake City Crafts, quilling.com

•Fine-pointed tweezers (No. 177), $3.75, from Lake City Crafts, quilling.com

•Small sharp scissors, by Martha Stewart Crafts, available at Michaels stores

Martha Stewart Crafts tools and supplies are available at Michaels, Walmart, AC Moore, Meijer, and independent craft stores.

Gather Materials


Don't let the elaborate effects fool you; quilling is simple. You need only a few basic crafts items.

Clockwise from top:

A round-headed pin is useful for precise glue application.

A slotted quilling tool lets you create coiled shapes with ease.

Fine-pointed tweezers are essential for tiny shapes.

Use small sharp scissors to cut fringe.

Quilling paper comes in a variety of colors and widths; most of our projects can be made with standard precut strips. If you prefer, use a paper cutter and medium-weight paper, such as vellum or stationery, to make your own; construction paper is too heavy and will not roll easily.

Step 2: Basic Quilling Shapes

Experiment with basic techniques before starting a project.

Loose Circle

Create a tight circle, but do not glue. Instead, lay it on a flat surface, and let it expand. When satisfied with the shape and size, glue the end of the strip to secure.

Loose Scroll

Form a loose circle, but do not glue closed.

Marquise

Fashion and glue a loose circle; pinch each end.

Connected Scrolls

Make several loose scrolls; position with unrolled ends pointing the same way. Curve each over rolled end of next scroll; glue.

Open Heart

Fold a strip in half, and crease. Roll each end toward center.

V Scroll

Crease paper at center; roll ends outward.

S Scroll

Form an S shape by rolling one end toward center, and the other in the opposite direction.

C Scroll

Roll both ends of a strip toward the center


Step 3 : Open Hearts

Open heart shapes are used in the quilled heart valentine. To make open hearts, fold a strip in half, and crease. Roll each end toward center and glue to card.

Step 4 : Tight Circle

Tight circles are one of the most basic quilled shapes, and are used to make the quilled frame cards.

To make a tight circle, slip paper into the slot on the quilling tool, placing paper's end flush with edge of slot.

Step 5 :Complete the Tight Circle

To complete the tight circle, turn tool until strip is rolled into a firm cylinder. Remove paper from tool, and glue closed to complete your tight circle.

Step 6 : Teardrop

Another common shape is the teardrop, which is also used in the quilled frame cards. To make a teardrop, create and glue a loose circle; pinch one end to form a point.

Step 7 : Frame

If you want to design a frame or border for your card, create a freehand pattern that incorporates several of the basic shapes you've learned. Alternatively, you can purchase a published pattern, many of which are available in clip-art books.

Here, we arranged a series of fleurs-de-lis, each made from three V scrolls of graduated sizes, and one teardrop. Form and glue individual shapes, using the pattern as a guide. Then use a ruler to draw a rectangle on the card. Dab points of glue on undersides of quilled shapes and position them, standing on edge, along the pencil line. Hold in place for 15 seconds to allow glue to set.

Step 8 : Fringed Flower

Fringed flower shapes are used in the quilled floral cards. To make a fringed flower such as a daisy or a zinnia, scallop the top of a strip of paper, and then cut fringe. (To create flowers with centers, glue together two strips of paper, each a different width and color, end to end; then fringe.) Roll entire length of paper into a tight circle, as shown here.

Step 9 : Complete the Fringed Flower

Glue closed. With your fingers, spread the fringe and separate it into petals. Curl the petal ends outward and downward with tweezers to achieve desired shape.

Step 10 : Bells

Bells are used to make the quilled lily-of-the-valley card. Roll and glue a tight circle. Using your finger, push center of circle to create a cone. Secure the end with glue. If desired, spread a light layer of glue over surface of bell; this will help the bell keep its shape. Or spread glue inside to hide the glued area. Positioned along four leafy stems made from strips of green paper to complete the lily-of-the-valley.

Step 11 :Script

Quilled script is used to make the scripted valentines. You can write a message in your own hand, adapt one from a calligraphy book, or create one on a computer. Lay short strips of quilling paper along the curves of each letter you want to form. Shape ends with quilling tool, or use scissors to curl paper as you would a ribbon; cut strips to correct length. Trace message onto paper. Glue at intervals, one letter at a time. Turn quilling paper on edge; use tweezers to hold it in place for 15 seconds to allow glue to set.

Classic valentine messages never go out of style. You can shape individual strips of paper, curling the ends as you would a ribbon, to form letters that resemble calligraphy. Use carefully placed dabs of craft glue to hold each letter in place on a card.

Quilled Florals

To make these elaborate quilled floral cards, create a trio of fringed flowers, such as daisies or zinnias, and glue them to folded card stock. Use an opaque pen to add a message in your own script.


For a lily-of-the-valley card, roll eight off-white bells, and position them along four leafy stems made from strips of green paper


You can write a message in your own hand, adapt one from a calligraphy book, or create one on a computer. Lay short strips of quilling paper along the curves of each letter you want to form. Shape ends with quilling tool, or use scissors to curl paper as you would a ribbon; cut strips to correct length. Trace message onto paper. Glue at intervals, one letter at a time. Turn quilling paper on edge; use tweezers to hold it in place for 15 seconds to allow glue to set.

http://www.marthastewart.com/article/quilled-floral-cards

Pencil Stamps

Instead of using your pencil eraser to make marks disappear, turn it into a stamp and make playful pictures appear on cards and wrapping paper.


Just press the eraser into an ink pad, and stamp polka dots onto paper. Or cut the eraser with a utility knife to create different looks: Half an eraser makes a half-moon, and a third creates a delicate crescent. We stamped colored kraft paper and blank card stock, and added stems to flowers with a green pencil.

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Floral-Cutout Cards & Wraps

Add a new dimension to gift wrap and cards with these floral cutouts.

Download the template and cut it out.

Using a pencil, trace the template onto the desired surface.

Carefully cut along traced lines with a craft knife, leaving gaps between petals.

For gifts, wrap item with paper in a contrasting color before covering with cutout layer.

For cards, attach a cutout card to a second card in a contrasting color using double-sided tape.

http://www.marthastewart.com/goodthings/floral-cutout-wrap-and-cards?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/all-occasion-cards#slide_12

Button Stamp

Button Stamp How-To


1. Select buttons with raised surfaces and distinct patterns -- fluted edges, stars, flowers, cat's eyes, and pinwheels. With white craft glue, mount buttons on wine or craft corks; if possible, use a cork narrower than the button so you can see to position the stamp accurately. Buy already inked stamp pads in several colors from your stationer. Uncoated papers are most receptive to the ink. Since buttons are rigid, you'll get the best image by laying paper over a piece of felt or a stack of folded paper towels before stamping. Press button into pad, then stamp, rocking it gently; this ensures a complete edge.



2. Wipe the stamp clean on a damp sponge between impressions. Try layering some of the simpler images for enhanced effect.

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Potato Prints

Potatoes are wonderful mashed, baked, scalloped, or fried, but they have a less conventional use, too: as decorative stamps for personalized gift cards and tags.

The best potato prints have a painterly quality reminiscent of impressionist art. To make one, cut a potato (any variety will do) in half, and draw a shape onto the flesh with a pencil.

Then, using a utility knife or a jackknife with a thin blade, carve around the outline of the pencil design, and cut away the background to a depth of 1/4 inch.

Mix gouache paints (available in tubes at art-supply stores) with a little water, then apply the paint directly onto the design with a brush; or dip the potato into a dish of paint as though using a stamp pad.

Press the potato onto blank cards, reapplying paint when the prints become faint. Each print will look unique and slightly irregular -- a work of art in itself.

To make a tag, punch a small hole in the corner of the card with a needle or an awl, and thread a piece of string or ribbon through.

http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/potato-prints?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/all-occasion-cards#slide_11

Message Cards

It's easy to express yourself with our fill-in-the-blank stationery. And you'll never have to make a last-minute dash to the store again. Choose from one of three patterns, then adhere a pretty calligraphed message to the front (we supply 10). No matter the occasion, you're guaranteed to have something sweet to say.


Message Card How-To

Heavy matte ink-jet paper yields the richest colors, but any card stock will do.

Download and print card template and cut out. Use a bone folder and a ruler to create a crease; fold. Download and print greetings onto clear matte self-adhesive label paper. Cut out greeting and adhere to card.

http://www.marthastewart.com/article/message-cards?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/all-occasion-cards#slide_8

Paper Cutout Cards

These beautifully rendered floral cutouts look elaborate but are easy to make.

•Paper of your choice, from Martha Stewart Crafts

•Sharp pair of embroidery or cuticle scissors

•Pencil

•Utility knife with replacement blades

•Transfer paper

•Bone folder, from Martha Stewart Crafts

•White craft glue (or spray adhesive), from Martha Stewart Crafts

•Glue stick (if using heavier paper), from Martha Stewart Crafts

•Fine-tipped brush

•Self-healing cutting mat

•Flower templates
 
Introduction
 
These beautifully rendered paper cutouts require only patience, concentration, and a careful hand to make. The materials required for even the most elaborate cutouts are simple and inexpensive -- paper and pencil, scissors and knife.


We used two main cutting techniques to produce our designs. One is to cut a single shape, often drawn along one continuous line, from unfolded paper (like a silhouette); the other method is to cut one or more designs from folded paper, resulting in double images or repeating patterns.

Step 1 : Trace the Templates

To start, use transfer paper to trace the templates, which will keep the design right-facing. For cutting designs from folding paper, do not fold the paper more than two or three times. Score creases with a bone folder for precision. Before you begin to cut, secure the edges of the folds with paper clips, or staple the folds together outside the borders of the design.

Step 2 : Cut the Shapes

Paper is easiest to handle if you begin cutting from the center and work your way out to the edges. Pierce the paper with scissor tips or a pin to gain entry into small spaces. A utility knife is ideal for cutting curved shapes, and central and small areas. Rest paper on a self-healing cutting mat, and apply steady downward pressure on the blade. Guide the knife toward you, holding the paper taut with your free hand. Scissors are best for large shapes and outer edges.

Step 3 : Attach the Cutout

Once you have begun to cut on a fold, never open the paper to check your progress; it is nearly impossible to realign it, and the symmetry of your design will be spoiled. To eliminate the chance of a tear, you'll need to change knife blades whenever the paper starts to pull as you try to cut.

Before pasting a cutout onto paper or another surface, you may flatten it in a heavy book for a couple of days or press it with a cool, dry iron. Mark and measure carefully for placement; even freshly glued cut work cannot be moved without risk of tearing and distortion. Use white craft glue and a fine-tipped brush, or spray adhesive with good ventilation. A glue stick can work for pieces cut from heavier papers.

http://www.marthastewart.com/how-to/how-to-make-paper-cutout-cards?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/birthday-and-everyday-cards#slide_0

Elegant Eggs

Inspired by an easy Japanese technique, we've created these delightful decorations to enjoy this Easter and next.

Preparing the Shells

You can empty the contents of a raw egg without damaging the shell. (If you prefer, use wooden eggs, available at crafts stores.) Carefully twist the point of a utility knife against each end of the egg to create two small holes. Insert a long pin through a hole to pierce the yolk. Blow out the insides with an egg blower, available at crafts stores, or with a rubber ear-and-nose syringe. Let drain; rinse. Blow out again, rinse again, and let dry.

Tools and Materials

Blown-out eggs

Pencil

Origami paper

Embroidery scissors

Small paintbrush

Glue sealant, such as Mod Podge

Elegant Eggs How-To

1. Mark egg's length plus 1/4 inch on paper; roll paper around egg's circumference, add 1/8 inch, and mark. Cut out resulting rectangle.


http://www.marthastewart.com/article/elegant-eggs?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/easter-eggs#slide_10

Crepe-Paper Spring Birds, Nest & Eggs

Quince branches set the stage for a scene adopted from the newly invigorated outdoors: birds perched beside nests. This flock watches over quail eggs that have been dyed different colors.
Some of the materials can be found at crafts stores and florist shops; others might come from your yard.

1. Make head and body: Use a glue gun to affix a small polystyrene ball to the rounded end of a larger polystyrene egg (for each bird, vary placement slightly to create different body postures); let dry.




2. Cut a 7-inch square of colored crepe paper. Lay the body near the bottom edge. Beginning at the breast, wrap the body, stretching the paper to fit the contours as you go. Brush with tacky glue.

3. Taper back end to create tail. Twist front end to create a beak; brush with glue. Trim with scissors while paper is wet; let dry. Wrap beak in brown floral tape; trim. For eyes, press in map tacks.

4. Make wings: Tear strips of crepe paper in desired hues. Overlap strips to create a color gradient, and glue. Cut out 2 rectangles; glue to each side of the bird. Taper ends to form wing shapes.

5. For the breast, cut a paper oval in a contrasting color, and glue
 
Coconut-Fiber or Grapevine Nest
 
Sources: Loose grapevine, from B&J Florist Supply, 212-564-6086
 

This nest is a cluster of grapevines, shaped by hand and then set onto a quince branch. The eggs are naturally speckled but have been dyed shades of green and blue.

1. Gather coconut fibers or grapevines to form a ponytail; secure 1 end with 24-gauge brown wire.

2. Curl secured end to form a coiled base; continue to curl, adding new bundles and wiring every few inches until nest is formed. (Ours are 2 to 4 inches across.) Secure end with more wire. Adjust by hand to create a cup for eggs.

Dyed and Speckled Eggs

1. Stick flathead pins into a foam board to create a drying rack. In a heatproof jar, mix 1 tablespoon vinegar, about 5 drops of food coloring, and 1 cup hot water. Place eggs (they can be hard cooked or blown out) in dye for 1 to 5 minutes, depending on desired color intensity. Transfer eggs with tongs to rack; let dry about 30 minutes.
 
 

2. Put a piece of felt into a cardboard box. Dip a stiff-bristle paintbrush in watered-down acrylic paint; spatter over felt. To transfer, gently press egg against paint; let dry. Repeat to add more speckles.
 
http://www.marthastewart.com/article/crepe-paper-birds-how-to