Quilling

Quilling, or paper filigree, is an art form in which narrow strips of paper are rolled, shaped, and glued to create decorative designs. The basic element is a coil or scroll, which can be tightened, loosened, and formed into teardrops, marquise shapes, and spirals. These elements are arranged on a background to compose pictures, patterns, or decorative motifs. Tools commonly used include a slotted quilling needle, tweezers, a quilling board, scissors, and glue.

Quilling likely originated in the Middle Ages, with practice in Europe and Asia. It grew in popularity in Europe from the 15th to the 18th centuries as a refined craft for decorating religious objects, book bindings, and portraits. The name is thought to come from the quill pens once used to roll the paper. The craft declined in the 19th and early 20th centuries but was revived later as a popular hobby, aided by books and kits.

Techniques involve rolling paper strips (usually 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide) around a tool to make tight coils, loose coils, or spirals. The coils are shaped by pinching or bending to form petals, leaves, or geometric motifs, then arranged and glued onto a backing to build a design. Quilling can yield flat pictures or three-dimensional forms.

Materials vary: papers may be solid or patterned, sometimes metallic; common widths are 1/8 to 1/4 inch. Adhesives such as PVA or white glue are used; some crafters employ double-sided tape.

Applications include greeting cards, scrapbooks, wall art, jewelry, and decorated boxes. Quilling is also taught in crafts communities and featured in contemporary art, with tutorials and exhibitions.