Paper rope [WOYWW143]

I'm using paper from an old wrecked bible to make an art piece that gives a quote from the bible. So I am not using bible paper indiscriminately. I do not mean to offend with my art.

I wanted to show how I made the paper rope in my art piece. All you need is strong paper and sharp scissors. Just fold the paper in half and cut into strips using sharp scissors and keeping the top and bottom of the shape intact. It's just like the paper lanterns we made in school years ago. I think they still make them.


Lay the shape on top of something that 'grabs' and you will have to experiment with what works for you. I used a chunk of rubber that is meant to hold the top of jars tight while you open them. Kitchen/household rubber gloves would probably also work. The back of a rug that has that non-stick coating would probably work as well. Start rolling back and forth gently. Once you have a good 'roll' going on, pick it up in both of your hands and continue rolling with your fingers individually.

When it comes time to cut the ends you must pay attention because it is really easy to cut the wrong bit and you've then shortened your rope without meaning to. Cut the top through to the end on one side (let's call it the 'top') and then move over one space and cut the bottom through to the end, and so on. You'll notice that each side has cuts that skip a space. So it looks like: cut, skip a space, cut, skip a space. But you'll just have to try it yourself to see what I am talking about. I'm sure there are more clearly written instructions for the making of paper rope somewhere on the web. I just wanted you to see what I am working on these days.

Here is a little book made with cigarette paper pages. There are two pages to this book which contain a quote from the bible on one of them and a bird illustration on the other. I've used bible paper to line the front and back inside cover. The cover itself is made of handmade Japanese paper and when closed the books is wrapped and fastened with paper rope adorned with cowrie shells from Hawaii.


When opened:


The little book complete. My weathered hand is 61 years of age.


So that's what I've been working on these past few days. To see more wonderful workdesks, pop by here, Julia Dunnit's blog featuring the desktops of artists all over the world every Wednesday. Join in and show us what you are working on. What does your desk look like. What do others' desks look like?

Thanks for dropping by and we'll see you soon, I hope. *smiles* Norma