Polish Wycinanki Papercutting

This traditional folk technique—once used to brighten rural homes across Poland—can be as simple as single-color silhouettes, or complex pictorial scenes created with overlapping cut paper shapes.

This full-day workshop teaches three distinct Wycinanki techniques: radial star designs, accordion-folded figures, and symmetrical bilateral images. Class begins with the simplest technique of folding square paper into triangular sections to create eight-pointed mandalas adorned with botanical motifs and geometric flourishes. Students progress to accordion-folded figures—the charming "people holding hands" technique where rhythmic pleats create dancing chains of connected forms. Students end class learning to create mirror-image compositions, where a single fold creates perfectly matched forms—from traditional roosters and trees to contemporary interpretations.

Working with fine scissors and layered colored paper, students trace provided patterns onto folded stock, learning to navigate tight curves and delicate interior cuts without tearing. As confidence builds, students layer multiple colors to create depth and contrast, just as Polish artists have done for generations.

All materials included: fine-point scissors, pattern templates in various traditional and modern designs, and an array of colored papers suitable for layering.