Papel Picado

Create eye-catching designs using a technique called Papel Picado (“cut paper”), a form of Mexican folk art in which an elaborate design is cut out of colored paper.

Project Image

Tools

Vinyl Cutter or Laser Cutter

2D Modeling Software, Gravit or Vectr

Materials

Colored Paper

String

Project details

Students in math class are learning abstract geometry concepts and looking for physical examples in nature. After choosing concepts, like the Golden Mean and Fractals, and researching their significance and application, they create Papel Picado representations that can be posted in the classroom.

Students design the layouts by hand first and take care that all of the shapes hold together in one piece. They then use the vinyl/craft cutter or the laser cutter to cut out their designs on paper of various colors. Multiple copies can add to a festive effect!

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