January 20, 2017
It’s that time of the year again - the season for overeating, nosy relatives whom you won’t see for the rest of the year and gaudy decorations, tons of it.
Tired of dusting off traditional red/gold chunlians (春联) or faux firecrackers and looking for something current? We’ve got three easy DIY paper projects that’ll put a trendy spin on the usual Lunar New Year adornments. Huat in style this year (and impress your hard-to-impress extended families) with a bit of handmade magic!
Kois are a popular symbol in Chinese art, as they represent prosperity and good fortune. Moreover, the Chinese character for fish (鱼) has the same pronunciation as the word for excess (余) - Which means luck and more luck every year (年年有余)!
For those who can’t afford to buy an $888 fish, you can still make do with this cute, patterned paper kois that probably won’t cost more than $8. Place them as a decorative piece alongside your ba bao (八宝) tray, or use it as gorgeous wall decor.
Fun fact: Fortune cookies are not Chinese in origin, but an American invention that somehow became commonplace in Chinese restaurants. Though they don’t hold any particular auspicious meaning, they can be a quirky addition to a reunion dinner.
Family and friends will be pleasantly surprised by this unusual, oriental-style party favour. Don’t worry, you won’t be baking up trays of brown biscuits - Here’s an easy-to-make paper version of the popular snack. Lastly, don’t forget to insert slips of well-wishes or messages of good luck.
Money doesn’t grow on trees, but you sure can get a plant that’ll bring in the cash! Chinese money plants are a favourite home addition for the Lunar New Year because of their intended Feng Shui benefits - its rounded leaves are said to bring positive energy and good fortune.
Not an avid gardener and find it bothersome to maintain a plant? Grow your very own low-maintenance paper version with this tutorial! They look adorable, won’t require watering, and of course, impressed relatives will be commenting on your amazing handicraft skills.
Looking for more DIY projects? Check out this video tutorial on turning your old sweater into a soft cushy pet bed for less than $20!
For more interior inspiration, download the Qanvast app on App Store and Google Play. With thousands of design ideas from over 200 interior firms, building the perfect home is just a tap away.