The Red Paper Station

A hub where tradition meets creativity, celebrating the timeless art of paper cutting and its stories.

“Sangpi – Originating from the Han Dynasty (202 BC – 9 AD), this traditional Chinese paper is also made from the paper mulberry tree's inner bark. With its long history, Sangpi is the ancestor of both Washi, Hanji, and Xuan paper (a fine traditional Chinese paper for calligraphy and painting).”

The art materials I’ve chosen are from the Sangpi family, such as Xuan, Washi, and Hanji. They represent centuries-old papermaking traditions integral to their respective cultures and are considered art forms.

Sengpi papers possess a soft, raw, and natural texture that distinguishes them from other papers commonly used in art. This unique tactile quality stems from their handmade nature, often incorporating uneven fibers and subtle variations in thickness. While these characteristics add depth and organic beauty to the finished work, they also present challenges in the intricate art of paper cutting. The variability of the fibers can cause blades to catch or snag during detailed cuts, requiring heightened control and finesse. The paper’s softness also demands steadiness and precision to avoid unintended tears or cuts. Its delicate nature requires careful handling to balance firm cutting pressure with gentle manipulation. Despite these challenges, the raw, natural quality of Sengpi paper offers unparalleled beauty, enhancing the artistry of each piece and making the extra effort worthwhile. 

Paper cutting is an art form that requires minimal materials, but this simplicity comes with a trade-off; the limitations and constraints on what a creator can achieve with just a small set of tools. That said, the concept of a "wrong" cut feels abstract when I work on a piece. Instead of seeing it as a mistake, I often think about how I can integrate an unintentional cut into the overall design, allowing it to become a natural part of the artwork's evolution. That’s why I believe paper cutting is an art form that, while less forgiving, teaches the creator to embrace inclusivity and adaptability throughout the process.