Chinese paper-cutting is one of the most popular traditional folk art forms. (9)The first piece of paper-cutting appeared in western China around the 6th century. From the 7th to 14th century, paper-cutting became popular, especially during Chinese festivals. The art spread to the world in the 14th century.
In the beginning, Chinese people used thin materials like leaves to make the cutting. After paper was invented, they found that this material was easy to cut. (10)
People make paper-cuts to show beautiful things and express their good wishes. (11)Everything can become the theme of paper-cutting, from great people to the things that can be found in everyday life such as birds, flowers and animals. There are also some Chinese characters in traditional Chinese paper-cutting. The most common five characters are Fu (blessing), Lu (career), Shou (long life), Xi (happiness), and Cai (wealth). (12)
(13)People only need a piece of paper and a pair of scissors or a knife. Using scissors can make several pieces of paper-cutting at a time by cutting several pieces of paper together, while using knives can only make one piece at a time. But to make this art perfect is not easy at all because it requires a lot of effort, practice, skills and imagination.
At present, in some parts of China, the paper-cutting skill has become a must for women and a symbol of a clever mind.