Paper quilts take less time to make than fabric quilts and do not require the sewing skills that fabric quilts require. This allows children the hands-on experience of creating a fun and easy craft. Paper quilts also encourage a collaborative environment in the classroom and give each student the opportunity to have his artwork represented in a classroom group project. This demonstrates that each student is important as an individual, but also important to the group.
To create a classroom paper quilt you need paper, scissors, decorations, a quilt base and staples or glue. For paper, you can use white construction or printing paper. The quilt base you use depends on the type of quilt the class makes. Bases include bulletin boards, poster boards or craft paper that comes in a large roll. For decorations, use crayons, markers, paint, glitter, ribbons, seed beads and any other objects suitable for a paper quilt.
To make, first cut out identical squares of paper, one for each child. Be sure the squares make one large square quilt when placed together. If there are any spaces leftover, create your own quilt square to make sure the quilt is even and complete. Give the students decorations and allow them enough time to decorate their individual quilt squares. After the glue and paint on individual squares are dry, assemble the squares on the quilt base. For bulletin boards, use staples to secure the squares. For poster boards and craft paper, use glue. You can also forgo a base and simply staple the squares together. Add a border if desired.
Use seasonal themes by creating a “Winter Wonderland” or a “Falling Into Autumn” quilt. Handprint quilts are also ideal for young children. Simply have the children use paint to make handprints on a paper quilt square, label with their names and decorate. There are endless possible themes for paper quilting projects; choose the best theme for the personality of your classroom.