Tutorial 0 : Introduction to paper quilling

Paper quilling, also known as paper filigree, is an ancient art of creating beautiful designs by using paper strips. The coloured paper strips are rolled over a needle to create coils. These coils are then shaped and glued to form various patterns.

In this tutotial, I am going to introduce you to the various materials required for quilling.

Types of Paper

Various materials used in quillling

1) Quilling papers - You get a variety of pre-cut quilling strips in market with various widths too (3mm, 5mm, 10mm). You can also cut your own quilling strips. However the paper has to be of right thickness. Paper thickness is measured in gsm (Grams per square meter). Higher the gms value, thicker the paper. Ideally 100 to120 gsm should be good for quilling.

If you are new at quilling, would suggest you to buy a pack of quilling strips so that you don't run out of patience.

Quilling strips are available in various types like- Plain/solid color, Graduated, Two tone, Pearl, Metallic, Acid free and many more.

Slotted needle quilling tools

2) A pair of good scissors

3) Glue -You would need a fast drying clear glue. PVA glue / White craft glue works great. I prefer glue bottle with a nozzle. It helps in better glue application. You can use a toothpick or a thin brush too.

4) Quilling needle tool - This is optional and you can do fine without it too. You can roll the paper using your fingers only. But needle tool, especially the slotted needle tool is good for beginners.

Here is a close up of the slotted needle tool.

5) Quilling Comb - This is also an optional tool used for husking or creating wheatear coils.

6) Crimper machine - This is used for creating crimped paper i.e giving paper ridges and waves texture.

These are some of the basic materials used in quilling. So gather your supplies and get ready to learn and participate in the monthly quilling challenges.