Quilling is an art form that involves the use of strips of paper that are rolled, shaped and glued together to create decorative designs. This form of jewellery making technique is also called "Paper Filigree". The paper is rolled, looped, curled, twisted and otherwise manipulated to create shapes which make up designs to decorate greetings cards, pictures, boxes, eggs, and to make models, jewellery, mobiles etc. The most popular and versatile technique is that of rolling. The paper strip is rolled in fingers or using a tool called a quilling needle. The coil is then released and then glued at the tip and then shaped. These shaped coils are arranged to form flowers, leaves and various ornamental patterns.
Origin of the Art of Quill Jewellery
During the Renaissance, French and Italian nuns and monks used quilling to decorate book covers and religious items. The paper most commonly used was strips of paper trimmed from the gilded edges of books. These gilded paper strips were then rolled to create the quilled shapes.
The craft has gone through many transformations and changes through the ages using new techniques, styles and materials. The craft has become increasingly popular due to the low cost of the material.
Quilling Paper Types
Quilling paper is available in over 250 colors and dimensions. It can be divided into various categories, like solid colored Quilling paper, graduated Quilling paper, two-tone Quilling paper, acid free Quilling paper and other assorted parcels of Quilling paper. It is available in various dimensions, such as 1/8 inch, ¼ inch and 3/8 inches broad paper parcels.
Varieties of Quill Jewellery
Quills can be used in full length or cut into small pieces and be pieced by width. They are often combined with beads and leather to make products. Quills should be sorted to and grouped to match each other. Products include earrings, necklaces, pendants, hair berets and chokers. They are very light in weight. Quillwork has a number of different methods. Pieces that are made with looping structures, or constructed with other mediums such as beads will vary significantly in price to those earrings that simply hang.
Paper Quill Jewelry Making Techniques
•To begin with, there should not be any moisture in the hand. Wipe off with a dry cloth or tissue.
•Use quality glue. The glue should flow freely like water.
•For making loose circles, don"t roll the paper strip tightly. It will not expand to the desired size.
•For the final glossy finish, apply a very thin layer of varnish evenly and slowly over the quilled jewellery.
•Before applying varnish, wipe the jewel with clean tissue. This is to take off the tiny dirt which might dry off along with the applied varnish.
