Making Your Own Paper Quilling Jewelry

Paper quilling has a rich history, and is an art that utilizes paper strips rolled, shaped, and glued to form decorative shapes. The work can be used to create designs on its own or incorporated into other objects such as greetings cards, pictures, boxes, and even jewelry.

The earliest recorded examples of quilling can be traced back to the 1200s and 1600s, when nuns wrapped strips of paper around goose feathers (quillers) to create coiled decorations on reliquaries and holy pictures. With the invention of paper mills, quilling became a cheaper alternative to expensive wrought iron or carved ivory filigree.

While any paper can be used for quilling, special acid-free papers are available to ensure a long life for your completed projects. This type of paper is referred to as quilling papers, and it’s available in a variety of thicknesses and colors, including shiny metallic edges. You can also find graduated quilling paper that begins with a dark shade and gradually fades to lighter colors.

To make your own pieces of paper quilling jewelry, you will need a few basic supplies. A good quilling glue is essential, and many quillers prefer Elmer’s Clear School Glue or Scotch Clear Glue. You can also use a clear acrylic sheet or an overturned Styrofoam tray as a non-stick work surface. A clay modeling tool is often helpful for positioning coils and applying glue, as is a needle for creating fine lines. If you like, add a few drops of water to your glue for more control and consistency. Paper Quilling Jewelry