Basics of Quilling

What Is Quilling?

Quilling, also known as paper filigree, is the art of rolling, shaping, and gluing thin strips of paper to create decorative designs. It dates back to the Renaissance, when nuns and monks used quilled gold-gilded paper to embellish religious objects. Today, quilling has evolved into a popular craft, used for making greeting cards, wall art, jewelry, and even 3D sculptures.

The beauty of quilling lies in its simplicity—you don’t need expensive supplies, just patience and creativity!

How to Start Quilling for Beginners

If you’re new to quilling, don’t worry—it’s easy to pick up! Here’s a simple step-by-step approach:

1. Learn Basic Shapes

Start by mastering a few fundamental quilled shapes:

• Tight Coil – Roll the paper strip tightly and glue the end.

• Loose Coil – Roll and let it expand slightly before gluing.

• Teardrop – Pinch one end of a loose coil.

• Marquise (Eye Shape) – Pinch both ends of a loose coil.

• Square – Pinch opposite sides of a marquise shape.

2. Practice with Simple Designs

Try making:

• A basic flower (using teardrop petals around a tight coil center)

• A butterfly (marquise wings with a thin strip as the body)

• A heart (two teardrops glued together at the pinched ends)

3. Move to More Complex Projects

Once you’re comfortable, experiment with:

• Layered designs

• 3D quilling (like miniature sculptures)

• Combining quilling with other crafts (scrapbooking, card-making)

Basic Quilling Tools and Materials

You don’t need much to begin quilling—just a few key supplies:

Essential Tools:

• Quilling Needle or Slotted Tool – Helps roll paper strips neatly.

• Tweezers – For precise placement of small pieces.

• Glue (PVA or Clear Craft Glue) – Dries clear and holds shapes firmly.

• Ruler & Circle Sizer – Ensures uniform shapes.

Optional (But Helpful) Tools:

• Quilling Comb – For creating intricate patterns.

• Crimper – Adds texture to paper strips.

• Workboard – A foam or corkboard to pin designs while working.

Types of Quilling Paper Strips

Quilling paper comes in different widths, colors, and textures. Here’s what you should know:

1. Standard Widths

• 3mm (1/8 inch) – Most common, great for beginners.

• 5mm (3/16 inch) – Works well for larger designs.

• 10mm (3/8 inch) or wider – Used for fringed flowers and bold shapes.

2. Specialty Papers

• Gradual/Ombé Strips – Color transitions for a gradient effect.

• Metallic & Glitter Strips – Adds sparkle to projects.

• Double-Sided Color – Different colors on each side for contrast.

3. DIY Quilling Ideas

Quilling Whale

Quilling Strawberry

Quilling Shark

Quilling Seahorse

Quilling Mango

If you don’t have quilling paper, you can cut your own strips from colored paper (using a paper cutter for precision).