Project

Floral Papel Picado: A Classic Mexican Paper Craft

This example of traditional Mexican folk art is a must-have party decoration. It looks elaborate, but with a paper-punching tool, this paper craft couldn't be easier! It's perfect for Cinco de Mayo or any other kind of fiesta.

Source: Martha Stewart

Introduction

What exactly is it? Papel picado (translated to mean "perforated paper") is an iconic Mexican paper craft. Traditionally, craftsmen created designs by chiseling through several stacked sheets of tissue paper, allowing them to produce dozens of decorated sheets at once. They're used to decorate for all sorts of special occasions such as weddings, baptisms, quinceañeras, and especially the Day of the Dead. It's also great for Cinco de Mayo.

Here, we gave this classic decor idea a modern twist: paper punches do the work for you (and let you get back to the party faster).

materials

Martha Stewart Crafts Flower Shower Punch All Over The Page

Martha Stewart Crafts Edge Paper Punch in Beaded Ruffle

8.5 x 11" cardstock in pink and orange

Ribbon

Glue

Scissors

Ruler

steps

Trim the paper to measure 8.5" x 6.5" using ruler and scissors.
Use the edge punch to punch the bottom border of the paper; then, punch the flower pattern on the rest of the banner.
Fold back the top of each banner half an inch; glue the ribbon here.
Repeat above steps 6 times to create a complete garland.