What is Quilling?
Quilling, also called paper filigree, is a beautiful craft from the 18th century that involves rolling and shaping paper strips to create intricate designs.
Originating in Europe, quilling was initially used to decorate religious objects. Over time, it has evolved into a versatile art form enjoyed by many worldwide. The process involves tightly rolling thin paper strips and then shaping them into various forms, such as flowers, animals, and abstract patterns.
Quilling allows for endless creativity and can be used to make stunning cards, artwork, jewelry, and home decor. It is a meditative and relaxing hobby that people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy.
Whether a beginner or an experienced crafter, quilling offers a unique way to express creativity and create beautiful art pieces.
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How to Get Started Quilling
Embarking on the quilling adventure is a piece of cake! Just snag a few key items, and you're good to go. You could dive in with a fancy starter kit that has all the bells and whistles, or if you're the independent type, I'll walk you through the must-haves.
Paper Quilling Strips
The narrow paper strips form the basis for your artwork and are available for purchase online, with my preferred source being Amazon.
Alternatively, you can create your own strips using a paper cutter or a Cricut machine. (In Cricut Design Space, you can find pre-made templates for quilling strips shared by other craft enthusiasts).
Ensuring uniformity in the width of the strips, which typically range from 3mm to 10mm, is essential; I favor the 5mm (.20 inch) width. Additionally, these strips are available in various weights, and I typically use 120gsm for my projects.
When selecting your paper strips, consider the color options available. Choosing various colors can enhance the visual appeal of your quilled designs.
Experimenting with different color combinations can lead to stunning and unique creations. Remember to have fun and let your creativity flow as you bring your quilling projects to life!
Quilling Tools
Quilling tools assist in shaping paper into different forms, such as coils, scrolls, and teardrops. When starting your quilling journey, you should have a needle and slotted tool in your arsenal.
The needle tool is perfect for creating small details and tight coils, while the slotted tool is ideal for making larger coils and scrolls.
These tools are often sold together as a set, making it convenient for beginners to get started. I have used several slotted tools, but my go-to is the Savy Slotted tool, which has an ergonomic design and helps avoid hand strain. Â
Experimenting with different techniques and shapes using your quilling tools will unlock a world of creativity and endless possibilities.
Whether you are creating intricate designs for cards, home decor, or gifts, the quilling tool will be your trusted companion in bringing your imagination to life on paper.
Quilling Glue
Using glue is crucial for securing paper and giving life to your designs. Opt for glue with a needle tip to ensure the glue is not visible. This allows for better control over the amount used and ensures you choose a glue that dries clear.
I've dabbled in a colorful array of glues, and while some put on a good show, my heart belongs to Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue. This glue is a total gem - easy to use, quick-drying, and you can even snag a nifty precision tip kit for some extra flair.
Scissors
Snip away with precision using sharp-pointed scissors for quilling, but any old pair will do the trick!
Beginner Quilling Ideas
If you're looking for creative sparks, Pinterest is your treasure trove of quilling inspiration and how-to videos! You can also follow my blog and see what quilling creations I come up with.