A-Cut-Above Paper Ornaments

• White paper
• Extra-fine-tip black waterproof marker (we used a Sharpie Permanent Marker)
• Heavy watercolor paper
• Crafts knife
• Watercolor pencils
• Fine artist's paintbrush
• Spray sealant
• Decoupage medium
• Burnt umber acrylic paint
• Clear matte finish
• Small hole punch
• Fine cording

Download Paper Snowman Cat Pattern

Download Paper Snowman Top Hat Pattern

Download Paper Snowman Birdhouse Pattern

Download Paper Snowman Shovel Pattern

1. Cut out the ornament fronts. Trace the patterns onto white paper. For easier visibility, darken the traced lines on the patterns with a marker. Tape the patterns to a sunny window or a light box.
2. Tape a sheet of watercolor.paper over the patterns. Use an extra-fine-tip black waterproof marker to trace the design lines onto watercolor paper. On a cutting surface, use a crafts knife to cut away the areas inside the circles; do not cut out the circles.
3. Cut out the ornament backs. Tape the watercolor paper, design side down, on a window or light box. Use the marker to trace the cut lines and the outer circles. Note: Trace all lines if you want the backs to match the fronts.
4. Add the color. Color the ornament fronts with watercolor pencils. Moisten the paintbrush with water and dab off the excess on a paper towel. Use the dampened brush to blend the colors; let dry and repeat for the opposite side if desired. Spray both sides of the ornament sheet with sealant.
5. Apply decoupage medium to both sides of the ornaments; let dry. Mix a few drops of burnt umber with the medium in a disposable container. Apply two coats of this mixture to each side of the ornaments, letting the mixture dry between applications.
6. To finish the ornaments, spray them with clear matte finish. When the finish is completely dry, cut out the circles. Punch a hole at the center top of each ornament for a hanging loop. Thread the hole with cording; knot the ends together.