Art-Making
Activity: Cut a Wstega (FSTENG-gah) Design
The ribbon-like Wstega design comes from the Rawa and Opoczno
regions of central Poland.
Materials:
• Sharp scissors (manicure scissors for
intricate cuts)
• Colored paper—origami or solid color gift
wrapping paper
• Glue—white glue or glue sticks
• White or contrasting matte or poster board
• Iron (optional)
Folding and Cutting Instructions:
1. Begin with a rectangular strip of paper. This
example was made from a 3” x 8” piece of paper. Carefully
fold it in half lengthwise with the colored side of the paper to
the inside. Press the fold firmly to make a sharp crease (fig. 1).
2. Fold it in half again, but crosswise this time
(fig. 2).
3. Fold it in half crosswise once more (fig.3).
With this fold you have created eight rectangular sections within
your strip of paper.
4. Cut shapes and designs through all the layers
of paper along both of the longer sides of your rectangle, being
careful to leave some areas joined at the edge that contains the
fold (fig. 4).
5. Now cut shapes and designs through all layers
along the shorter sides of the rectangle. As both of these edges
contain folds, you will need to be very careful to leave some areas
joined on each (fig. 5).
6. Carefully unfold your Wstega. You will
see that you have created a repeating horizontal pattern that can
be glued on a piece of matte or poster board of another color to
make a vibrant border. |
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