8 Useful Tips for Quilling Beginners

In fact, quilling is a traditional papercraft which has been popular since the 15th century. In the last couple of years, quilling, also known as paper filigree has experienced a resurgence in popularity. It has been used for card making, paper flower making, jewelry, wall decor, scrapbooking and monograms etc. If you can make wonderful shapes and patterns using simple quilling paper strips and quilling tools, it will be amazing. This article will summarize some tips for quilling beginners to make your project easy.


1. Using Pre-cut Paper Strips for Your First Project

Quilling Paper Strips

Use pre-cut quilling papers for your first projects. Your initial attempts will have better results if you use precise machine-cut papers. Once you are comfortable with basic quilling techniques, you can cut your papers and explore your creativity by experimenting with different methods.

2. Start With Small Project

Start with smaller sized projects first. You can quickly become overwhelmed when trying to tackle a craft project that is too complicated or too large. Small projects can promote feelings of success and accomplishment and can be the building blocks the help you master your skills one step at a time. Once you have mastered the basics, you can attempt complicated projects with ease.

3. Use the Right Tools

Quilling Slotted Tools Set

It's important to choose the right tools. You don't need to buy any special tools to create paper filigree art–a toothpick or bamboo skewer will roll paper strips very well. If you are bitten by the quilling bug and wish to continue, you should purchase a slotted quilling tool and a needle tool.

You can place the strip of paper into the upper slot of the slotted tool, giving you more control when rolling the paper strips. A needle device is a long tapered needle with a long wooden...MORE

4. Have a Light Touch When Using Glue

When gluing your rolled paper shapes, always remember to use glue sparingly. Too much glue can quickly ruin your project, which you may have worked on for hours. The hassle of starting a project over can be avoided with a little bit of caution. You can always add a bit more adhesive if necessary, but cannot remove excess glue.

5. Paper Quilling Patterns

Some beginners find using a premade quilling pattern quite helpful when first starting out. There are quilling patterns available for purchase or free download on the internet. These printable patterns can guide beginners helping them build their skills. All you have to do is place the printed pattern under a sheet of waxed paper and follow the suggestions. You will quickly have a quilling "masterpiece" that you will be proud to give as a gift or display in your home.


6. Master the Basic Quilling Shapes

Learn the basic shapes before working on a quilling project. It can be quite helpful to make a master sheet of basic shapes. Glue different shapes to a piece of cardboard to use as a reference when working on various projects.

7. Circle Sizing Board

A circle sizing board is a tool you don't want to ever be without. It is a sheet of plastic that has predrilled holes of various shapes and sizes. Use the holes to help you roll the paper shapes and you will always have consistency in your shapes. This board is a tool you will want to use again and again

8. Acetate Sheet

Build your quilling piece on a sheet of acetate. It is strong enough to give your glued quilled shapes stability. After the glue has dried, you can pull your quilled piece up off the sheet without damage. Just wash the leftover glue from the acetate sheet and reuse for your next project.

Closing Thoughts

These are just a few tips to help you get started on your quilling journey. Remember that it will take awhile to master the craft, so be patient with yourself and practice. You will find that if you keep at it, you will amaze yourself with your progress. You will soon be making pieces of quilling art that are beautiful and will be treasured by you and everyone you make your projects for.