ART VIDEO: How to construct a 3D PAPER SCULPTURE using 8 techniques with Kerri Bevis #artlife​

Abstract Paper Sculpture

Kerri Bevis demonstrates how to make an abstract, three-dimensional paper sculpture using eight paper-manipulation techniques. The goal is to learn the methods and arrange them in a personal way—not to copy the example. Experiment with paper shapes, sizes, colors, and how the pieces are attached.

Materials

• Paper for the sculpture and a backing sheet. Colored paper, newspaper, magazine pages, or decorated paper can all be used.
• Scissors
• Glue
• Optional: a cup or other circular object to trace a circle

Eight Paper Techniques

1. Spiral: Cut out a circle, draw a spiral from the edge toward the center, and cut along the line. Glue down the tail. Optionally, attach another part of the spiral to lift it into a three-dimensional form.
2. Fringe: Cut closely spaced, parallel slits along a strip, stopping before the edge so the paper stays connected. Leave the strands straight, or fold or curl them.
3. Curl: Wrap a strip of paper tightly around a pencil or finger, then attach it in different ways. Try different strip widths or make a curl within a curl.
4. Loop: Glue the ends of a paper strip together to form a loop, then attach it to the backing. Loops can also be joined together.
5. Zigzag: Fold a strip by alternating over and under. Continue alternating so the paper forms a zigzag rather than wrapping into a bundle.
6. Accordion: Join two strips at right angles, then alternately fold each strip over the other. Secure the end and trim any excess paper. The resulting spring-like form can create a pop-up effect.
7. Fold and cut: Fold a piece of paper and cut shapes along the fold. Unfold it to reveal a symmetrical pattern. Use folded tabs to attach it to the backing.
8. Roll: Glue one end of a strip, roll it into a circle or tube, and secure it. A smaller roll can be placed inside a larger one.

Assemble the Sculpture

Glue the pieces onto the backing, arranging colors and forms as you go. Use enough glue to keep the sculpture intact. To help keep the backing clean, apply glue to the pieces on a scrap sheet first. Fill any leftover space by repeating the techniques.

Creators and Contributors

• Kerri Bevis: Presenter
• Delilah: Kerri’s daughter, who created the patterned background used in the demonstration.