How to Make a Paper Frame Cut

A decorative photo frame with kirigami-cut borders and a window for displaying a small photo.

Beginner10 min10 stepsUniversal

Multiple Paper Frame Cut crafts from above

Quick answer

To make a paper frame cut, you need paper, scissors and about 10 minutes. Start by start with a4 paper in landscape orientation. This activity has 10 steps and is rated beginner. Clean activity — no mess!

What you need

paperscissors

✨ Clean activity — no mess

Step-by-Step Instructions

1
Start with A4 paper in landscape orientation.
2
Fold in half widthwise to create a sturdy double-layer panel.
3
On the front layer, draw a rectangle in the center about 8cm x 6cm. This will be the photo window.
4
Cut out the center rectangle through the front layer only, leaving the back layer intact as a backing.
5
On the front layer, around the window, draw decorative border patterns: scallops, zigzags, hearts, stars, or vines.
6
Carefully cut out the decorative border patterns, cutting only through the front layer.
7
For corner decorations: cut small triangular or circular shapes in each corner of the frame.
8
The back layer remains intact and will hold the photo in place.
9
To insert a photo, open the folded card and slide a photo between the layers, centering it behind the window.
10
Close the card. The photo shows through the window, framed by your decorative border cuts. Your paper frame is complete and can stand when folded at a slight angle.