Paper Pusher with a Twist

The definition of paper pusher has always had a kind of negative connotation to it. The common meaning is someone who does paperwork for a living. Well, I was a paper pusher of sorts working as an administrative assistant for a computer company. I was asked by a coworker to help her create a diorama for her son’s school project. That was when I discovered you can really build just about anything out of paper. We built a Shakespearian theatre that is located in England. It turned out very well, so I started experimenting more with paper craft. As a member of our social committee at work, I was in charge of decorating cubicles for coworkers and managers birthdays as well as other special occasions. For one such occasion, I created a Hawaiian themed tiki hut. For another, a sunflower garden complete with a white fence and a flower garland complete with butterflies. All of this was done with paper! I continued experimenting over the years and have come up with many different types of paper craft projects. When I was working in the office, I always wished for more time to dedicate to creating artwork. My life changed dramatically a couple of years ago when I was diagnosed with a degenerative disease. I am currently disabled and no longer working, so now I have even more time to enjoy creating these unique art pieces. I have found it to be true that every cloud has a silver lining.

Since I began paper crafting experimented with different kinds of paper: regular colored paper, tissue paper and card stock. I learned which paper is best for the project I am working on. I also taught myself how to shape the paper and form it into three dimensional objects. The longer I worked at this, the more complicated projects I attempted and found success.

The most fun thing about paper craft for me is to make gifts for others. I love the looks of amazement I get when people discover that these creations are all out of paper. My favorite things to create are flowers and decorated frames that are colorful, cheerful and personalized.

I also teach others how to make these paper craft projects. For the moment, I am living in an assisted living facility getting some physical rehab. During arts and crafts, I led a group of ladies and we created a paper flower. They had a really good time and asked to do it again sometime. It is also fun for kids. Several years ago, I taught art at the elementary level. For one class project we created a jungle mural and for another, an ocean mural. Nothing was drawn or colored; al the forms were made from paper and glued to the background. The kids and I had a blast making them, and the school displayed them for everyone to admire. Another class paper craft to decorate their classroom door for a Christmas contest and won hands down. There are many creative applications with this technique, and I am sure many more yet to be discovered.

I have used many different art mediums such as oils, watercolor and charcoal. Even though all these mediums each have their own merits, I have realized that paper craft is my favorite. It is both engaging, relaxing and sometimes challenging. Since I am no longer able to work, I am loving the time I get to spend doing this and it gives me a sense of purpose in my current situation. I continue to experiment as I create. I continue to discover ways to make my pieces more three dimensional in structure. I uploaded a picture of one of my recent projects so you can see an example of one of the forms of paper craft that I do. Should you decide to take up paper crafting, all you will need is a table, some colored paper, card stock, scissors, glue and a little imagination. There are no rules, so relax and have fun!