The Art, Tradition and Modern Significance of Papel Picado

The Art and Tradition of Papel Picado Stencils

Papel picado, meaning "pecked paper" in Spanish, is a Mexican folk art that involves cutting beautiful and intricate designs into tissue paper. These tissue paper cutouts are often used to decorate spaces during Mexican celebrations like Cinco de Mayo, Día de Los Muertos, birthdays, weddings and more.

Papel picado has a long history stemming back to the Aztec empire. The Aztecs would adorn temples and buildings with paper banners for special ceremonies and holidays. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they brought with them the idea of using paper cutouts for Catholic religious celebrations and rituals.

Over the centuries, papel picado evolved from basic geometric shapes into the elaborate lace-like patterns we see today. The paper cutting tradition has spread from Mexico around the world, with many cultures adapting and putting their own spin on it.

Papel Picado Designs and Meanings

There are many common motifs and designs used in papel picado artwork. Some of the most popular include:

• Flowers like sunflowers and marigolds
• Birds and butterflies
• Hearts
• Stars
• Skulls and skeletons (for Día de Los Muertos)
• Nativity scenes (for Christmas)
• Abstract shapes and patterns

In Mexican culture, each papel picado design carries its own unique meaning or symbolism. For example:

• Sunflowers signify worship and devotion
• Skulls represent death and rebirth
• Crosses and nativity scenes connect to Mexican Catholicism

Making Papel Picado Stencils

One easy way to create beautiful and consistent papel picado designs is by using stencils. Here are the basic steps for making DIY papel picado stencils:

1. Find inspiration for your design online, in books or from existing artwork
2. Sketch out your pattern on paper
3. Trace your sketch onto a sturdy material like plastic, cardboard or thin wood to create your stencil
4. Carefully cut out the design with an X-Acto knife
5. Test it out on tissue paper before decorating!

When making papel picado stencils, it helps to keep these tips in mind:

• Use simple, classic motifs that translate well into cutouts
• Focus the design in the center and leave lots of negative space
• Connect pieces together for better stability
• Use sturdy cardstock or plastic for durability

How to Use Papel Picado Stencils

The fun thing about papel picado stencils is how versatile they are for decorating all kinds of spaces and paper goods.

Room and Party Decorations

Some popular ways to decorate with papel picado cutouts include:

• Hanging swags from walls and ceilings
• Wrapping streamers around pillars and posts
• Stringing banners across doorways or photo backdrops
• Layering different colors and designs for 3D effect

Papel picado makes any Cinco de Mayo fiesta or Día de Los Muertos altar instantly more festive. Use lots of bright, vibrant colors to set a lively mood.

Wedding Decor

For weddings, use papel picado to add a unique romantic touch. Opt for designs in white, cream or other accent colors:

• Line the aisle with floral or heart papel picado swags
• Use papel picado backdrops behind the sweetheart table
• Decorate reception tables withcoordinatingpaper fans and chandelier cutouts

Cards and Stationery

Personalize stationery by stencilingpapel picadoonto:

• Wedding invitations
• Birthday cards
• Thank you notes
• Event programs

It adds a special handmade touch!

The Significance of Papel Picado Today

While papel picado has evolved from its religious and spiritual roots, it still holds significance in Mexican culture today. The intricate paper cutouts symbolize:

• Celebration of life’s milestones
• Family bonds and connections
• Passing down of artistic traditions

Many Mexican artists and artisans keep the papelpicado craft alive, using it to preserve heritage, inspire creativity and bring joy.

Around the world, papel picado also reminds us to take time to add beauty and meaning into even the simplest aspects of our lives.

FAQs

What does papel picado mean?

Papel picado means "pecked paper" or "perforated paper" in Spanish. It refers to the technique of hand cutting intricate designs into tissue paper.

What tools do I need to make papel picado?

The basic tools for handmaking papel picado are tissue paper, pencil/paper for drafting designs, scissors or an X-Acto knife for cutting, and a self-healing cutting mat. Using stencils also helps create consistent shapes.

Can I hang outdoor papel picado decorations?

Outdoor papel picado decor should be made from heavier paper like cardstock, laminated or sealed to withstand wind and moisture. Indoor tissue paper papel picado is too delicate for long-term outdoor display.

What shapes and designs are traditionally used?

Common papel picado shapes and designs include flowers like sunflowers and marigolds, birds, butterflies, stars, skulls for Day of the Dead, abstract patterns, holiday motifs like nativity scenes, and bright colors like fuchsia, turquoise, yellow and red.