Art 101: Paper Lanterns Workshop

In this workshop, participants will learn the basics of paper cutting while creating a fine art paper lantern. The class will explore inspiring examples of papercutting by other artists, then develop their own design to execute while receiving instruction on paper cutting technique.

This workshop is suitable for all levels of artistic ability.

Material fee: $25 payable to the instructor at time of class.

Bring to class: A sketchbook/scrap paper to brainstorm ideas before drawing onto lantern.

Materials you'll use: An exacto knife, extra blades, bristol paper, tracing paper, scissors, double-sided tape, cutting mat, ruler, and electric votive to illuminate your paper lantern safely. A lightbox and some reference images will be available to assist in creating one’s composition, if needed.

Other things you need to know: If you come in with an idea of what you want to make, it will help you finish your lantern in the allotted class time. Feel free to bring any reference materials you want to use/trace on the lightbox with you.

Safety consideration: Participants must have strong enough fine motor abilities to handle a sharp blade safely.

Age range: 18+ or parent signs a waiver (due to sharp blades).

Class outline:

1. Introductions and review of materials and objectives
2. Slideshow (on ipad or hooked up to projection if available) of paper cutting examples, discuss paper cutting design principles
3. Simple demo of paper cutting technique with exacto knife
4. Students brainstorm and sketch out designs on the inside of their lantern
5. Students cut out designs
6. Lantern assembly

Teacher Bio: Hannah Day is a Sonoma County artist who works primarily in the paper arts. She received her MFA from UH Manoa in printmaking, and her etchings are internationally shown and collected. Her personal practice also includes paper cutting, graphite, watercolor, and mixed media. She has taught art to all ages, including painting, murals, mosaics, drawing, and paper cutting.

Teacher contact: [email protected]

Cancellation Policy: All refunds (minus admin fee) must be requested at least 3 days prior to class start.

Host or Publisher Chimera Arts