Help
Tips and tricks for making creations always more beautiful!
Which material to choose?
The choice of paper is essential because too thin paper could tear during cutting, and conversely too thick paper would be too complicated to cut and would prevent details from being done precisely enough. The ideal is to choose a paper between 160g and 200g.
If possible, only take samples to get started so you can find the paper that suits you best and the one you are most comfortable with!
​
the scalpel (or precision cutter) is the easiest tool to choose because there are many for sale on all platforms. the alone imperative is to choose a metal scalpel for longer durability.
Don't forget to order spare blades (normally the blades are universal and you can always buy more later).
⚠​ Warning : Remember to change your blades when they no longer cut enough, a blade that cuts well is a guarantee of cutting quality!
​
the cutting mat (or cutting board) cannot and must not be replaced by a simple cardboard: a mat makes it possible to handle the sheet easily, to guarantee a good sliding of the scalpel and a self-healing power : this means that when you cut the carpet by cutting your kirigami creation, the scars close on their own, as if no cut had been made!
The size of the rug is an in-between because the larger the rug, the more comfortable you will be in your cutouts, but a large rug will be more complicated to place and store at home ... the choice is yours (one size about 25 x 40 cm is a good in-between).
​
the folder : not essential but strongly recommended for all models where there are bends. Indeed, this tool makes it possible to mark the folds and therefore to facilitate the folding: you will need less effort to fold your models and the marking with the folder allows a perfect folding, without erasures.
Different models exist (bone, Teflon, bamboo folder, pre-folding stylus, etc.): all are the same.
It is essential not to tear or partially cut the paper when marking, it is only necessary to form a groove in the paper.
Make it disappear the cutting lines !?
Cut lines are essential but not really aesthetic, and you can make them disappear !
For this, you will need to bring your classic equipment and add a white sheet of fairly thin paper (printer paper does the job perfectly) and an aerosol can of repositionable glue (available in stores creative arts or on platforms online purchase).
Print the model on the white sheet then glue it to your usual sheet of thicker paper using the repositionable glue. Once cut, you can peel off the white sheet of your thicker paper and enjoy a kirigami pattern without the lines!
⚠​ Warning: Before using the repositionable glue on your cutting sheets, perform a test on a sample of paper to be sure to measure the amount of glue.
How to use the downloadable models?
Using these models available for download on Kirigami Planet is very simple: you just have to choose the model you want and then click on the "Download" button. A .pdf file containing the model to be cut is then downloaded on your computer (or other device). Then two choices are available to you:
-
You have a printer:
All you have to do is open the file in a pdf reader software then use the software's print function to print the model using your printer.
Note: Before printing, make sure you have placed your sheet of colored paper in the printer's paper tray.
-
You do not have a printer:
Place the file you just downloaded on a USB key then go to a store offering printing services to print your Kirigami model.
Tip: Some stores allow you to bring your own paper, so you can use whatever paper you want and save money!
​
Now, get your Kirigami material and start cutting your model: the solid lines must be cut precisely and the dotted lines must be ironed with the folder to mark the folds of the model. Once cut, assemble your model or glue the different parts of the model (note: for some complex models, the areas to be glued may be marked with hatching).
That It's there: your model is finished: you can now offer it as a gift or put it on a shelf as a decoration!
What am I allowed to do with these models?
All of the templates available on Kirigami Planet are intended for personal use, so you cannot use the templates to put them on your blog, or otherwise.
However, a solution was found for you who wanted to share a model: you just have to contact us via the contact page in order to ask if sharing is possible, an agreement will then be sought so that you can share the model!
For more information on the rights you have, visit the terms of use page .
How to fix a model with wire?
In the description of certain models, you may find a sentence which asks you to fix a model with wire: for this it is imperative to have drilled the holes marked by small circles on the model and on the card. Then, take a sewing needle (not compulsory but preferable) and a fairly fine thread (a thread the color of the paper will be more discreet!), And pass the thread through the holes then make one or more n œ solid knots to secure the model loosely either not block or damage. Once everything is attached, you can cut the ends of wire that protrude behind the card and finish gluing your card!
Note: in general there are three holes to connect per fixing point.
​
Do you want to hang your model? It is quite possible and two solutions are available to you:
-
This is a 3d model to hang in a vacuum
Using transparent thread (nylon), gently tie a knot at the attachment point that you think is most suitable for attaching the 3d model, then make a loop at the other end of the wire to be able to fix it to a solid support using a nail, thumbtack or other means of attachment!
-
This is a frame to hang on a wall
Choose a fairly fine wire that can support the weight of the Kirigami creation of the color of the wall on which you want to fix it then position one end of the wire behind your zig-zag frame and cover it with a piece of duct tape. Attach the other end to the wall using a nail, thumbtack or other fastening means!
Just one line: How do I cut?
There are cutting lines a little particular; indeed they are made up of a single line: we do not remove a piece of paper with / we do not make a hole ...
In fact, this type of cut allows you to add details on the model that differ from the usual details and add variety to the model. In addition, in the majority of cases, this type of cutting makes it possible to add elements that could not be cut by hand if they were made in a conventional way!
To cut them, it suffices to pass once with the scalpel on the line. Depending on the situation and taste, it is possible to make two very close passages in order to hollow out the line.
A question ?
Ask through the contact form and you will receive an answer as soon as possible possible and may see your question appear in this list!