About the Cover (2018.3)
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| Author | Kuni Noguchi |
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| Illustrator | Kuni Noguchi |
| Genre | |
| Published | EF Issue 2018.3 |
Publication date | Summer 2018 |
| Media type |
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| Pages | 13- |
| Website |
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Article Description. Should include author, brief description, issue number and page number(s).
Contents
Article Transcript
Kuni, step by step
I'm honored that I have been asked to show you my step-by-step process for paper cut artworks. It may not be helpful to you (unless you use the same technique), but I hope you will enjoy it.
When I draw, I try to capture a simple expression, so I don’t have to take anything away from the original drawing. Basically, I replace the necessary lines and negative space from the drawing with the most suitable sizes and shapes of paper.
Materials
Colored paper,
- Illustration board
- X-Acto knife
- Double-sided tape
- Double-sided tape sheet
- Styrofoam/Foamcore (height 5 mm)
Steps
1. I try to find a front- facing photo from the internet. This type of photo has the most personality and is easier for me to re-create.
2. start with a sketch. In the case of paper cut artwork, I try to make the likeness with more simplified lines than usual. This is because, in the finished product, the lines will need to be a bit fatter than they normally would be when drawn.
3. I choose three different colored materials (things like paper, cloth, etc.). Then I have to decide which color to put on which layer.
4. I cut an A4 size red sticker with paper backing attached to it. Then I transfer the drawing for the first layer onto this red sticker sheet. When I draw the line, I follow the actual "picture's line"...not the “cutting” line. Because if I follow the cutting line, I might sacrifice the loose quality of the original image.
5. I start to cut the first layer. The most important thing is cutting out the very detailed parts. I try to keep everything as connected as possible, only cutting away areas that will have the two layers beneath showing through.
6. Once everything is cut out, I pull off the backing and carefully attach it to the second layer (white paper). Sometimes I get help from a second person instead of doing it by myself and use tweezers to help position the thinner pieces. If I make a mistake, I have to restart the whole thing. So I have to be very careful.
7. Once the red layer is attached to this second layer, I cut the white second layer where I want the third layer of blue with red polka dots to show through.
8. I put pieces of styrofoam (5mm) on the back of the second layer. This gives depth to the piece and makes the shadows look like a fourth color.
9. I attach the third layer (which is a fabric) to a piece of illustration board.
10. Then I mount the first and second layers on top of it. All done!!
