Unlock the Magic of Paper Quilling: Essential Tools, Techniques, and What to Expect This Month
- Kate Spinks Dean
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Paper quilling offers a unique way to create delicate, intricate art using simple strips of paper. This month, we invite you to explore this timeless craft with us. Whether you are new to quilling or looking to sharpen your skills, this post will guide you through the origins of quilling, the essential tools you need, and what to expect from our upcoming live session.
What Is Paper Quilling?
Paper quilling is an art form that involves rolling, shaping, and glueing narrow strips of paper to create decorative designs. The paper is twisted into coils and loops, then arranged into patterns that can range from simple shapes to complex images. This craft is accessible to beginners but offers endless possibilities for creativity.
Origins of Paper Quilling
Paper quilling dates back to the Renaissance period, where it was practiced by nuns and monks who used quilled paper to decorate religious objects. The technique spread across Europe and evolved over centuries. Today, it is a popular craft worldwide, appreciated for its delicate beauty and meditative process.
Essential Tools for Paper Quilling
To get started with quilling, you need a few basic tools. This month, your box includes everything you need to dive right in:
Quilling Winding Tool
This tool helps you twist the paper strips into tight coils. It has a slotted tip where you insert the paper and then roll it around to create loops.
Measuring Stencil
The stencil allows you to measure your quilling loops to ensure they are the perfect size. It has various circles to help you maintain consistency in your designs.
Tweezers
Tweezers help you handle delicate paper shapes and place them precisely without damaging them.
Aleen's Tacky Glue
This glue is ideal for quilling because it dries clear and holds paper firmly without warping it.
Quilling Paper Strips
Your box contains TEN different coloured packets, giving you a rainbow of options to create vibrant designs.
Backing Card and Spinks Print
You will find a black and white backing card to mount your finished work and a free Spinks print with the phrase "Stay wild, earth child" to inspire your creativity.
How to Use Your Paper QuillingTools
Start by selecting a strip of paper and inserting one end into the slot of the quilling tool. Roll it tightly to form a coil. Use the measuring stencil to check the size of your coil and adjust as needed. Apply a small amount of Aleen's tacky glue to secure the end of the coil. Once you have the right size, release the coil gently and shape it using your fingers or tweezers.
Experiment with different shapes such as teardrops, marquises, and scrolls by pinching and bending the coils. Arrange these shapes on your backing card to create your design. The glue will hold everything in place once dry.
Preparing for the Live Paper Quilling Session
Your quilling box should have arrived by now. Before the live session on Wednesday night at 7.30pm BST, check that you have all the items listed above. The Zoom link will be emailed to you shortly. During the live event, I will demonstrate techniques, answer questions, and guide you through a project step-by-step.
If you don’t have a box this month, you can still join us by watching the session on TikTok. Bring along any crafting projects you’ve been meaning to finish and craft alongside us. The session will also be available on YouTube after the event for you to watch at your convenience.
Tips for Enjoying Paper Quilling
Work in a well-lit area to see the fine details clearly.
Take breaks if your fingers get tired; quilling requires patience.
Use minimal glue to avoid warping the paper.
Practice different shapes to build your confidence.
Keep your workspace organised to avoid losing small pieces.
What You Can Create with Paper Quilling
Paper quilling can be used to make greeting cards, framed art, jewellery, and decorative boxes. This month, we encourage you to create something inspired by nature or your personal style. Use the "Stay wild, earth child" print as a starting point for your design.
If you enjoy creative projects like paper quilling, you can explore our other monthly craft boxes and upcoming workshops over on the Curious Octopus website. We host live online craft nights every month where we learn a new creative skill together in a relaxed and beginner friendly environment. You can also catch up on previous workshops and creative content over on our YouTube channel if you’d like to craft along in your own time. www.CuriousOctopus.art At Curious Octopus, we believe creativity is for everyone, not just people who think of themselves as “artistic.” Our monthly craft boxes are designed to help adults slow down, try something new, and make time for themselves in the middle of busy everyday life. Every month we send out a different beginner friendly creative project with all the materials you need, followed by a live online craft night where we create together as a community. Whether you join us live, watch later on YouTube, or simply enjoy crafting quietly in your own space, Curious Octopus is all about reconnecting with creativity, curiosity, and the joy of making something with your own hands.