1 Making the Cut

Paper cutting is an easy craft to do on a rainy day when you have time to relax – it’s almost meditative. Trace patterns of simplified, stylized leaves and fronds onto cardboard in different but related colours; trim with fine scissors. To create a 3D effect, layer the cutouts and position them into a pleasing arrangement within an embroidery hoop fitted with a backing of coloured cardboard. When the arrangement is pleasing, glue sections of each leaf or frond to the cardboard backing.