Scherenschnitte, is a German word that means “scissors cuts”. Although paper cutting had its origins in China, as the craft spread throughout the world, many countries developed their own unique style. Paper cutting found its way to Germany and Switzerland during the 16th century. Scherenschnitte usually has intricate designs which look like delicate lace. Often the designs are wholly or partially symmetrical. Trees, animals, love and silhouetted humans are all common themes. The cut outs are usually mounted on contrasting paper so the designs pop. We are sharing a simple scherenschnitte design. If your child enjoys this craft, they can work on increasingly difficult designs as her skills grow.

Scherenschnitte is often cut into thin paper, often parchment, allowing for very tiny pieces to be removed. In our project we are using cardstock paper because it does not rip as easily.

Scherenschnitte Materials

• cardstock paper
• tissue paper (optional)
• sharp, pointy scissors (curved and straight)
• push pin or thick, sharp needle
• glue stick
• bird pattern

Scherenschnitte Directions

Print bird pattern on a piece of cardstock paper.

Insert a push pin in areas that will be cut out. This will make it easy to get the point of your scissors in the hole for cutting.

Begin by cutting out the smallest pieces. In this case, the eye and the strip separating the wing. It is easiest to used curved scissors, like cuticle scissors, on the curved lines. Turn the scissors if necessary to match the curve you are cutting out. Also, you can go through and cut away large waste sections, then go back in and carefully cut out on the lines.

Finish cutting out your design. The side of the scherenschnitte with the black lines will become the back of the design when you are all done. If there are some black lines left, they will not be seen. Also, if an area is accidentally cut, simply tape it back together and continue. If you tape on the lined side of the scherenschnitte design, you will not see the tape when you flip it over.

To mount the scherenschnitte design, rub glue stick on the lined side of your design.

Position it over a contrasting pieces of cardstock paper and gentle press the design onto the paper. Place it in a frame and hang.

If you prefer, you can glue the scherenschnitte design on a piece of tissue paper. You can now mount it on a window for a stained glass effect.

Tissue paper backing without lighting behind it.