Papel Picado is a craft done using tissue paper and a unique stencil that allows you to create an amazing picture in paper. Famous Papel Picado Crafts are usually made for the special occasion of The Day Of The Dead or other special events.

Step 1: Preparation for Picado

For the following activity you will need:

Tissue paper

Pencil

Pattern (of choice, something simple like a skull will be easier, internet print out or stencil from store)

Scissors

Tape (optional)

Ruler (optional)

Step 2: Starting the Picado Craft

Preparing to start the craft, you will need to start off with tissue paper. The technique is as similar to making paper snowflakes. You will need to start by folding a rectangular sheet of tissue paper in half (Hamburger style) for more complex designs tissue paper should be folded several times.

Step 3: Sketching the Design (Stencil)

Using a pencil, lightly sketch one half of a stencil on the folded side of the tissue paper

Step 4: Dividing Into Sections

Using rulers, divide the paper in sections. This helps the design not touch but helps it connect to other areas of the paper in order to form the shapes of the paper. Shade in the areas that will later be cut.