Friday, February 25, 2011

Inkling: paper quilling

Have you heard of quilling? Quilling is an old art form that uses strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create designs. The paper is wound around a quill to create the roll – hence the name quilling.  

I have seen some amazing examples of quilling like this fish by Iron Maiden Art.



For my first attempt at quilling, I started with a simple design and one color. I didn’t have a quill handy (do you?)… so I used a toothpick to wind my paper around.

It’s actually not difficult but you need to be neat and precise (neither of which are my best qualities).

With a little practice, the designs can become more ornate and you could master quilling just like the Victorian ladies. Although, they probably had a little more time to practice.

9 comments :

  1. Love your tree Carolyn, perfect for St. Patrick's Day but doesn't scream shamrocks. So subtle yet the design is beautifully intricate.
    Well done.

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  2. What a beautiful tree! I used this technique to create some flowers for my daughter's party last summer (without realizing what it was called). I found that a bamboo skewer works really well for the smaller curls. For bigger curls I actually used the straw from inside a Windex bottle (cleaned and dried, of course!).

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  3. Just wanted to let you know that you post some of my favorite crafts. They are always something that is simple enough and not intimidating for a novice crafter (like myself), but can be taken to to a a more intricate or involved level for someone more experienced. Also, your posted crafts are always elegant and sophisticated, not too over the top and hokey.

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  4. OH I love quilling. I was recently given a new quill and template guide. I must admit I haven't done any paper quilling in a few years as we were homeschooling (for 4 years in Alaska) and it just wasn't feasible (plus I needed new glasses!)

    I am going to have to stop over to see what Iron Maiden Art is cooking up! Thanks!!

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  5. Amazing! Thanks for introducing me to Quilling. I have a hunch that i will take to it like fish to water!

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  6. just came across your blog :) its sooo cue! you have some really good insight on your posts! xoxo cant wait to read more of what you write!

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  7. Great job! I have been meaning to give it a whirl, just like you said, it comes down to time. But I love your design.

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  8. Very nice little tree - I'd say you're a quilling natural!

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  9. You did a wonderful job on your tree! Love it!

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