A shop shows you the art of paper and scissors

Recently I paid a visit to Liulichang Street, which is also known as “Ancient Culture Street.” A sign outside a shop that read ‘Old Beijing Paper-cut’ lured me in.

The house turned out to be full of fine, amazing paper patterns cut with scissors. They depicted ancient Chinese generals and beautiful women, Peking opera characters and facial masks, Chinese zodiac animals, and so on. I even found some images of Western celebrities.

The shopkeeper Ms. He was a middle-aged woman. She told me that all of the works here were handmade at the shop. She even showed me how to cut a pattern with ordinary scissors. Her hands are so skillful!

She showed me one of their most popular works: Twelve red carp are facing the Chinese character ‘Fu,’ which means ‘Blessing.’ The character is upside down, which means that the blessing is coming. The twelve fish represent the twelve months of the year.

Each of the paper-cut items shows great workmanship. They are easy to carry home and you can put them on your windows and doors. Chinese people believe this will bring good luck. Paper-cuts are also excellent souvenirs or presents.

What I appreciated

Local traditional handicraft, fine workmanship

What customers appreciate

Unique handicraft, remarkable workmanship