Quilling, also known as paper filigree, is the art of
cutting and curling narrow strips of paper and laying them on edge to
form intricate filigree designs. The process, which dates back to at
least the 13th Century, originated with religious orders who used the
gilded edges of old manuscripts to decorate religious artifacts. It is
believed the paper was curled around the base of a quill (or feather),
hence the name quilling.
The art form has survived over the
centuries, falling in and out of fashion. During the past two decades
there has been a resurgence of interest in quilling throughout the
world. Quillers have been informally organized through membership in
quilling guilds (Australia, England, Japan, Netherlands & North
America), and most recently through e-groups on the Internet. The
quilling artists who belong to the guilds work in an effort to promote
the art of quilling and ensure that its beauty is passed on to future
generations. Quillers from all over the world can now communicate and
view photos via the Internet. They take an active role by teaching,
demonstrating, and exhibiting their work in their local areas.
The North American Quilling Guild (NAQG)
publishes a newsletter, Quill America, four times a year, which
includes pictures of quilling, tips, hints, patterns and a forum for the
exchange of ideas. An annual conference is held at a different venue
each year where quillers attend workshops and display their work. Check
our website for information about the next NAQGCON.
The NAQG celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2010 with a special project by, and for, its members. Forty-five members from around the globe made quilled flowers, many of them characteristic of their locale, from which a floral tribute was created by Helen Pierce, a member from Illinois who conceived of the anniversary celebration project and brought it to fruition.
