The Influence of TikTok on Traditional Paper Cutting Art Revivals

TikTok is reviving traditional paper cutting art by letting artists share short videos of their process—from designing patterns to cutting intricate shapes with scissors or knives. These videos showcase styles like Chinese Jianzhi, Mexican Papel Picado, and Polish Wycinanki, introducing them to global audiences.​
Artists in Beijing and Mexico City have gone viral for their tutorials, with millions of users recreating paper cuttings for holidays, home decor, and gifts. TikTok’s “duet” feature allows users to show their own creations, creating a community of hobbyists. Many videos explain the cultural meaning behind patterns—like how Chinese paper cuts of fish symbolize prosperity. TikTok is turning paper cutting from a niche craft into a global trend, preserving traditional art forms while inspiring creativity.

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