Basics of Quilling

What you will make:

Quilling is the art of rolling narrow strips of paper into coils or scrolls, and arranging them to form elegant filigree. In this project, you'll learn how to use a toothpick to roll coils and scrolls, then pinch, shape, and arrange them into decorative patterns. White or colored paper can be used—even pieces of brightly colored junk mail work well. Quilling can be done with simple tools and supplies, and almost anyone will get beautiful results. Save those scraps of paper and have some fun quilling!

Here's what you need:

• Paper for making narrow strips: computer paper, craft paper, construction paper, etc.
• Scissors
• Optional: Craft knife, paper cutter, tweezers, markers, beads, and ribbon.
• To help size coils: Small lids, curtain rings, or washers

Skip this step if you are making an open coil, one of the scrolls (heart, V, or S), or the V.
Spread out a sheet of wax paper to put your glued coils on. Use a white glue that dries clear, and apply a dab with a toothpick on the inside of the coil's tail end. Hold the coil loosely and let it expand to the desired size. Then press the glued spot against the coil and hold for a few seconds.
• Pencil and ruler
• Toothpicks
• White glue (Elmer's, PVA)
• Wax paper
• Other quilling winders: Round pencils, sewing needles (1 or 2 mm), knitting needles, T-pins, or a cocktail stirrer.