Quilling is a paper craft that’s been around for hundreds of years. The tools you need to start are minimal. The final effect is very cool. You can use quilled items for cards, jewelry, ornaments and more.
Steps
1. Start.
Quilling, also known as paper filigree, is a paper craft that involves strips of paper that you roll, shape and glue to create art. It might be as simple as a flower bud or a complicated three-dimensional ornament. This craft can be very easy as you can purchase pre-cut paper strips or it can be very economical by making your own supplies and tools. As you work through the badge programs, take notes so that you can present this craft to others.
2. History.
Many countries claim to be the originator of quilling. Unlike many old crafts, quilling did not vanish over time. Instead, resurgence has kept this craft alive. Read about the history of quilling and its popularity today.
3. Both.
Quilling is both a technique and a craft. As a technique, you can make shapes for cards, gift tags, scrapbook pages, wall art and more. Be sure if you use it for scrapbooking your paper is archival as well. It can be considered a craft because you can use quilling to make full projects like ornaments and snowflakes. Keep this in mind as you continue with this badge program.
I would recommend you start with quilling as a technique as the shapes are simpler and faster to make, providing you with a quick success. This is important when teaching others so they are willing to continue to try.
4. Learn.
I taught quilling at a local stamp store when my oldest daughter was a toddler . . . she’s now an adult. Check out local paper crafting, scrapbooking or even general crafting stores for classes in quilling. You might also check art museums and community centers. Learning with someone locally is preferred. If you can’t find someone, check out videos online to see how to make the shapes.
5. Web.
From simple patterns to very intricate art, you can find a lot of examples of quilling. Explore the Web and find one or more items that you would like to try yourself. Download the patterns that interest you. Be sure to keep them organized so you can find the ones you want later.
6. Books.
You can check out your local library for books that feature quilling. I know my local library rotates craft books as things become popular. You can also borrow books from Google and Internet Archive. Check out these sources for more information on quilling.
7. Themes.
Popular themes for quilled items include the following:
- Animals
- Flowers
- Insects
- Snowflakes
You may want to start with a single theme instead of randomly looking for quilling information. It will be easier if you narrow your searches.
8. Paper.
When quilling first started, people would cut the edges off old books for paper to use for this craft. Today, you can purchase pre-cut strips at many craft stores and online. You can also cut your own if you have paper you’d like to use such as a vellum so you can see light through it. Explore your options for paper.
NOTE: You can also purchase strips of paper that are diecut with fancy edges on one side. See what can be done with those as well.
9. Tools.
You can start with a needle (or toothpick) and glue. However, using items like a slotted tool, fringer and quilling board with straight pins can make the process easier . . . and more enjoyable. Of course, there are many other tools out there that make it easier to quill as well as do more complicated filigree. Look at the tools you might use. Decide if you want to invest in this craft or start with your main items only (paper, needle and glue) and see if you enjoy quilling before making a larger investment.
10. Share.
Share what you’ve learned with others. You might choose to use this to encourage others on your adventure or to find a local teacher. You might bring this up as an idea for a craft event or as a meeting activity. How else might you share what you’ve learned?
Badge and Supplement Files
Member Level
- 0EP_B_BPG_QuillX_2in_12up_MS1_larajla — generic badge printable
- 0EP_BLIST_QuillX_MS1_larajla — badge items per membership level
- 0EP_BSET0_QuillX_MS1_larajla —badge set and related badges
- 0EP_SUPP0_QuillX_Journal_MS1_larajla — badge journal
- 0EP_SUPP0_QuillX_Planner_MS1_larajla — badge planner
- 0EP_SUPPL_QuillX_MS1_larajla — supplements currently available per membership level
Supplement Fun
- N/A
Sites to Explore
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quilling
- www.naqg.org
- www.mypaperquilling.com/paper_quilling/history_of_quilling.php
- www.craftexpert.co.uk/QuillingGuide.html
- weirdandsurprisinglygood.blogspot.com/2009/09/art-lesson-2-quilling.html
- www.quilling-guild.co.uk/index.htm
- www.craftcreations.com/pages/free-craft-projects (look through products for quilling)
- www.google.com/search?tbm=bks&q=quilling
- archive.org (search for quilling)
Get the infographic here > larajla blog post
Get the PDFs of the badge program / supplements here