If you’re just getting started with papercutting these practice sheets are a great way to start. Lettering is such an iconic part of papercutting but can take some time to master. You can print them off as many times as you like so you can get used to holding a knife, cutting clean lines and moving the paper.
How to cut the template
Download the letter sheet and print on to plain paper. If you really want to get started but only have copier paper you can use it but a heavier paper will be better and less likely to rip. For more information on different papers you can read our blog post on it
Cutting out lettering (in this case, negative space lettering where the letters are the pieces you cut out) uses the skills of both straight line and curved line cutting. Lettering on papercuts can be small and it’s good to practice different sizes of letter. The lettering practice sheet is presented with all the letters ‘flipped’ to read backwards. This is because most templates will be flipped when you download or purchase them. The template is printed on the reverse of the paper and when finished, you turn them over to reveal the finished cut with no markings on it.
To make cutting the letter templates easier, I cut them in to sections so there was less paper to move around. This video is sped up – the actual cutting took 4-5 minutes.
Work your way through the template – you’ll probably find that cutting some letters are harder to papercut than others. I particularly hate ‘g’ and ‘c’ because of the small curls!
The easiest way to make your own practice sheet for lettering is to write out your favourite words in clear letters. If you want to test your mirror writing then you could also write them backwards! Alternatively you can type words in a large san serif font to practice on. If you’re using a design programme you can then ‘flip’ the design so that it is backwards before you print it.
Love papercut lettering?
There are many ways to add words and letters to your papercutting. Check out these free templates and tutorials to start today;
