Papel Picado print cushion DIY

Using the papel picado cutting technique , a scanner/printer and some image maker you can easily transform a plain cushion case into something more vibrant and exotic....

This is my third project inspired by the Mexican folk art of paper cutting, and it really is so easy...

...I will show you how, but it might be worth having a look at the two other paper picado inspired posts I've done first, for some information on the process and history of papel picado....

papel picado coasters

papel picado banner

OK....So first we have to cut the papel picado motif....

I found this lovely love-bird template here at happythought.com....

For this bit you will also need:

Coloured tissue paper,

scissors

masking tape/paperclip

 Make a book by folding the tissuepaper in half inside the folded template...

...secure with a strip of masking tape or use a paperclip like I have...

 Cut out your pattern...

 

 Unfold to reveal your papel picado...

The next step is to scan the papel picado and print....

 Then use a pen in a shade darker than the colour of your papel picado, and draw around the outline of your print...

.....scan again, and print out two copies...

 

 This is what my image will look like when applied to the cushion...

I had a plain cushion cover that I wanted to jazz up, but you can of course very easily sew one...

...if you do, maybe best to do the printing on one of the sides before sewing together....

....because it will bleed through the fabric and can stain the back of the cushion, I placed a plastic placemat inside to prevent this....

So you got your papel picado prints ready, your cushion with something placed inside to prevent bleeding and now all you need to do is apply the image using image maker...

Apply a smooth and even thick layer of image maker to the face of your print...use a sponge for best result....

Then place the image face down in position on the pillow case...using your hands press down and  smooth away any air bubbles....

..repeat with the second papel picado print...

Then cover with paper towel and use a rolling pin to press the image into the fabric....

....roll over with an even pressure for about 1 minute....

Leave to dry for at least 4 hours.....

 

Using a scouring pad/sponge, wet the back of the paper print. and gently rub away the paper, using circular motions....

 

When you are satisfied the image is as clear as it is going to be, rinse away all the paper crumbs and hang to dry....

 ...and there you have it:

Your papel picado print cushion...

Thanks for looking...

I will be back before the end of the day with my big summer Wednesday post reveal...

xxx

June