Hispanic Heritage Month

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WHAT IS PAPEL PICADO

Literally, papel picado means "pierced paper." It is a form of Mexican folk art with origins dating back to the Aztecs. The Aztecs made a type of coarse paper out of mulberry and fig tree bark and pulp called amatl, banners, tablecloths, and flags created with this amatl paper adorned homes, streets, and religious institutions. Traditionally, children and their families decorated town streets a week before special holidays or festivals.

Papel picado, made by cutting shapes and figures into tissue paper which is folded or stacked, and then unfolded into delicate patterns and pictures, transforms any occasion into a colorful fiesta.

How to make it

You will need—scissors, string, tape, tissue, paper (about 8x10 inches)

Fold a sheet of tissue paper three or four times.
Using scissors, cut shapes into the folded edges.
Unfold the layers of tissue paper carefully.
Make a banner of papel picado by taping string to the finished sheets.
Hang banner anywhere to celebrate life.

Enjoy!

Posted/Updated: 09/12/2008