Images by Keiko Tsubokura
It’s peak season to celebrate the splendor of the sakura / cherry blossoms!
For centuries Japan has worshiped cherry blossoms—sometimes as a goddess, always for their beauty and often as a good excuse for a party! —Kirsty Kawano, Saavy Tokyo
And while the joyful tradition of hanami (flower viewing) has been put on hold this year, we invite you to celebrate the symbol of Japan from your home.
Join us in making kirigami sakura for our second installment of Kayo美 Kai!
Kirigami (切り紙) is the art of creative papercutting. Kiri means “to cut" and kami/gami means "paper" in Japanese. Inspired by papercrafts in China, kirigami became popular in Japan around the 7th century, using traditionally crafted washi paper to create the pieces.
Kirigami starts with a folded base followed by precise cuts to form a piece of art. Simple kirigami are usually symmetrical.
Here is what you need to create kirigami sakura:
Materials:
・Paper (Construction Paper, Wrapping paper, etc...)
Printable origami paper patterns are available online. Click here to download.
・Scissors
Step-by-Step (from L to R):
The sakura reminds us more, now than ever, that new beginnings lie ahead.
Share your kirigami creations by emailing lhurley@jas-hou.org or tag us on social media with #Kayo美Kai.