Paper-cutting, as a traditional Chinese folk art, was initially popular in the royal palaces and noble houses as one of the favorite relaxing entertainments, for paper at that time was highly precious. Until the 7th century, paper cutting became greatly popular on folk festivals and celebrations to signify auspiciousness. As early as Song Dynasty, there had been professional paper cutting craftsmen.
In Chinese culture, Paper-cutting represents the notion of good wishes, luck and fortune. It can be made in single color paper and colored paper. The most common subjects in paper-cuts are the animals of the Chinese zodiac and the figures from Chinese legend, stories and religion. The themes of Chinese folk lives are vividly presented by a knife and a pair of scissors in the delicate patterns of (walls, windows, doors, columns, mirrors, lamps and lanterns) decorations, clothes-making stencils and embroidery patterns for shoes.
Paper-cutting used to be one of the standards to judge whether a girl was smart enough as a wife. In the countryside, it is still a skill of women and girls. In China , during the preparation of the new room for the bride and bridegroom, paper-cuttings with Chinese character "Xi" (means happiness) and lovebirds are attached to each corner of the room, walls, doors, windows, mirrors and furniture. In some rural area, paper-cut of tiger is put up on the door when a new baby is born to frighten away devils. In Chinese traditional festival, Spring Festival, paper-cuts pasted on the gates of each household create joyous atmosphere.
