Wycinanki

During December, Julia and I took classes at the Wilson Center of the Arts to learn the Polish art of paper cutting or wycinanki (vee-chee-NON-kee). There were three classes scheduled, but we only made it to two. The goal is to develop a new skill and learn a bit about Polish culture while having fun. Once again, our instructor was Kasia Drake-Hames.

Wycinanki is a form of art that is typically very colorful, with sharp points, and very symmetrical. In the first class we followed a pattern to make Christmas Trees, them embellished them with other paper cutouts or punches. Reminded me a bit of cutting out paper snowflakes because we folded the paper before cutting. That explains the symmetry. Here are week one's final products.

Julia's tree

Grandma's tree

The last class we could either make paper ornaments, or greeting cards. Seeing as I never got around to putting up a tree, I decided to make some cards. Again, the concept is to be symmetrical so I tried to keep that in mind.  Here are the fronts of my cards.  (The bunnies are actually punch outs)

Nativity made with pattern

My favorite is this snowflake

The tree was the pattern - rest are punches

Leaf pattern

Julia finished up an ornament she had started the first week, then started a "porcupine" ornament.

I ran out of time in class, but gave the porcupine technique a try at home. I really like it, but next time will use more colorful paper. If you'd like to give the porcupine ornament a try, here is a link to the directions Polish Ornament .

Polish Star    a.k.a. Polish Porcupine

More about Wycinanki:  Wycinanki had their beginnings in the first half of the 19th century when Polish peasants, using material and tools which were at hand, made beautiful decorations for their homes. Since it was customary to whitewash the walls of their homes just before Easter, it also became a tradition to cut out paper decorations which were then pasted directly onto the walls. The making of wycinanki became increasingly popular during the third quarter of the 19th century, with certain areas of Poland developing characteristic patterns. Originally, sheep shears were used to cut out intricate and delicate designs. This Polish art form reflected the history and characteristics of regional folklore.

I'd like to give a plug to Kasia, the instructor. She is a patient instructor, and did a wonderful job. I noticed on her website she will be teaching some interesting classes at Stone Creek Coffee in Bay View early in 2014. I will sign up and am anxious to learn more interesting crafts. Check it out:  Craftea Events