How to Make a Papel Picado Template

Add a vibrant touch to your celebrations with papel picado, the traditional Mexican paper art. These intricate paper banners are not only visually stunning but also surprisingly easy to make. Here's a step-by-step guide to create your own papel picado template, perfect for decorating your home or party.

Papel picado originated from the Aztecs, who used it for religious and cultural ceremonies. Today, it's a beloved tradition during Día de Muertos, but you can enjoy it year-round. Let's dive into the world of papel picado and learn how to make your own.

Gather Your Materials

Before you start, ensure you have the right tools and materials. Here's what you'll need:

• Tissue paper or crepe paper (traditional papel picado uses tissue paper, but crepe paper works too)
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Chalk or a disappearing ink pen for drawing your design
• Optional: A cutting machine like a Cricut or Silhouette for intricate designs

Choose Your Design

Papel picado designs typically feature geometric shapes, flowers, skulls, or other symbols. You can find plenty of inspiration online or create your own. Remember, simpler designs are easier for beginners.

Once you've chosen your design, sketch it onto a piece of paper. This will serve as your template. You can also use a cutting machine to create a precise template.

Prepare Your Paper

Papel picado is traditionally made from tissue paper, which is thin and lightweight. However, you can use crepe paper for a more durable result. Cut your paper into rectangles, with the length being the desired length of your banner and the width being the desired width of your design.

For example, if you want a 24-inch long banner with a 6-inch wide design, cut your paper into 24x6-inch rectangles. You'll need multiple sheets to create a long banner.

Create Your Design

Now that you have your paper and design ready, it's time to start cutting. You can do this by hand or use a cutting machine for precision.

If using a cutting machine, load your design into the software, adjust the settings for tissue or crepe paper, and send it to cut. Make sure to mirror your design if you want it to read correctly when hung.

Cutting by Hand

To cut by hand, place your template on top of the paper. Use a disappearing ink pen or chalk to trace your design onto the paper. Be sure to trace the design onto all layers of your paper stack.

Once traced, carefully cut along the lines with scissors. For intricate designs, you might need to use a sharp craft knife or a small pair of scissors. Work slowly and steadily to avoid tearing the paper.

Assembling Your Banner

After cutting, you should have a stack of paper with your design cut out. Carefully separate the layers, making sure to keep them in order.

To assemble, start with the bottom layer and tape it to a long piece of string or ribbon. This will be the bottom of your banner. Then, carefully tape each layer on top of the previous one, making sure to align the designs. Leave a small gap between each layer to allow light to pass through.

Hang Your Papel Picado

Once your banner is assembled, it's time to hang it up. Traditionally, papel picado is hung across streets or from balconies. You can also hang it indoors, using command hooks or removable adhesive strips to avoid damaging walls.

Step back and admire your handiwork. Your papel picado will add a festive touch to any space, casting beautiful shadows and allowing light to filter through its intricate design.

Now that you know how to make a papel picado template, it's time to get creative. Experiment with different designs, colors, and paper types. Remember, the beauty of papel picado lies in its simplicity and the joy it brings to those who see it. So, go ahead, create, and celebrate!