Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. Quilling is one of the variations on the theme of handicrafts. Quilling is also known as Filigrana or filigree work, paper-rolling, paper-scrolling, Mosaic, etc. Quilling is the result of manipulating and arranging small strips of paper into detailed designs. Depending on the desired shape and appearance, it can be rolled, looped, twisted, and curled. Glue is used to secure the paper strips into place.
This art originated in the 16 to 17th century. Originated in Ancient Egypt. More recently this art is practiced in France/Italy and England. Quilling often imitated the original ironwork of ancient days. The French and Italian nuns were the originators of this art. used to decorate religious objects in an effort to save money.
Paper quilling then resurged in popularity in the 18th century as a "suitable" pastime for the women of the aristocracy. The art of quilling spread from Europe to America and was favored by the American colonists as a decorative method.
Quilling has many transformations from ancient times to modern quilting. There are new formats like 2d and 3d formats. There are hundreds of quilters of all ages around the world who do this incredible work.
The art now includes placement of on-edge linear strips that aren't rolled at all. There are actually quite a few ways to learn to quill and many quillers are self-taught.
Paper is essential in quilling as it is the base of the craft. You can either buy pre-cut paper strips or manually cut the pieces yourself. The recommended paper is starting with paper that weighs 120 gsm (grams per square meter) as it is ideal for rolling and creating shapes. However, you can use anything from 80 to 160 gsm for paper quilling.
Some of the basic quilling tools are Quilling tool (needle tool or slotted tool), Ruler, Scissors, Tweezers, Glue (clear-drying, suitable for paper), Plastic lid (to use as a glue palette), T-pin, paper piercing tool, or round toothpick, Glass-head straight pins, Non-stick work board, cork, or Styrofoam (something into which you can stick pins).
Paper quilling is a decorative art and is known for things like fancy flourishes and florals. Because of this reputation, it’s commonly used on things like greeting cards, boxes, jewellery, and more.
You can make a wide variety of items with paper quilling. Some of the things you can create with this art form are Framed work, Invitations, Tissue box holders, Pencil boxes, Gift boxes, Coasters, 3d miniatures used as decorative items, Ornaments for Christmas, etc.
Some of the notable paper quilling artists are Yulia Brodskaya, Farah Al Fardh, Ann Martin.
Quilling is a delightful hobby in which we can lose ourselves for hours at a time. After spending your effort on something that looks magnificent, surely you would want to preserve your work to show off the wonderful art that you have created.
World of Paper Quilling has World Records. We can surely be amazed by the artists who choose to make a mark in this fascinating creative space. From Guinness Book to Limca Book, from adults to teenagers - this collection of awards and individuals are making Quilling a more and more sought-after skill!
Siliveru Sandhya is an artist who lives in Hyderabad and has exposure on quilling, paintings, origami, calligraphy crafts (DIY) etc, for about more than 10 years. You can find her on Instagram: @sandyfollowingdreams and on FaceBook: Siliveru Creations