Picados, Sarape, and Books, oh my!
It’s that time of the year again when we dust off our dancing shoes, embrace vibrant colors, and get ready to celebrate the richness of Hispanic culture – it’s Hispanic Heritage Month! Try out this papel picado art project!
From September 15th to October 15th, the air is filled with excitement as we honor the contributions, traditions, and stories of Hispanic and Latinx communities that have woven an intricate tapestry into the fabric of our society.
Imagine a month-long fiesta where you’re invited to explore the diverse landscapes of Latin America, savor mouthwatering dishes that have stood the test of time, and groove to the irresistible rhythms that can instantly transport you to the heart of the dance floor. It’s a time to pay homage to the historical figures who’ve shaped history, from artists to activists, and to embrace the modern voices that continue to influence and inspire. But what better way to capture the essence of this celebratory month than through the vivid strokes of art?
We wanted to bring a project to you that embodies the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month and also captures the beauty, joy, and vibrance of it.
This papel picado art project is inspired by papel picado folk art and given a background, not of the sky, but of brightly colored serape.
Papel Picado
First, if you’re not familiar, papel picado is a paper based folk art created in Mexico and other countries. It is created by using a sharp tool to cut into layers of colorful tissue paper. It can almost resemble paper snowflakes.
The paper is then strung and hung wherever celebrations and festivals are taking place.
The designs feature a variety of subjects such as the flora and fauna, religious imagery and patterns of the region. The overall design can be very simple to extremely intricate.
Sarape
The sarape, on the other hand, is a striped textile originally created by the Chichimecas, an indigenous people of Mexico.
Sarapes were first intended to be worn by men as an outer layer. The bright colors came from homemade dyes. Over time the colorful cloth was woven into a blanket. Today you can find striking sarapos as car seat covers, table clothes, clothing or blankets. Saltillo, Mexico is one of the busiest centers of sarape making.
What you'll need:
- 12×18 white sulphite paper
- 9×12 colored sulphite paper or construction paper
- Pencil
- Oil pastels
- Watercolors
- Scissors (decorative scissors optional)
- Paint brush, water & paper towel
- Yarn
- Glue
Pretty Papel Picado Art Project Instructions
Fold the paper in thirds, like a letter, and then fold in half to create 6 sections. In each, draw a rectangle with one of the sides with a jagged or scalloped edge.
Use a white crayon to draw a design on each picado. Press hard to transfer the wax to the paper.
Paint over each section with watercolors, using dark and vibrant colors to showcase the white.
As the watercolors are drying, create the sarape.
Place the darker color of sulphite paper with the long edge towards you. Use oil pastels or construction paper crayons to draw lines with various colors and thicknesses. Leave space on one edge for the fringe.
Smear with a finger or paper towel to smooth the colors.
Cut out the papel picado and arrange on the serape, including the yarn. When happy, glue the yarn down with the papel picado on top.
But wait…there’s more. We all love books, so we’ve put together a booklist for you!
Hispanic Heritage Month Booklist
Looking for the perfect books to link to this project, or to read on their own? Here’s some of our favorites!
(these are Amazon afflinks)
- Green Is a Chili Pepper A Book of Colors by: Rosanne Greenfield Thong
- Courageous History Makers: 11 Women from Latin America Who Changed the World by Naibe Reynoso
- Lucia the Luchadora by Cynthia Leonor Garza
- Paletero Man by Micah Player
- Dia De Los Muertos by Roseanne Greenfield Thong
- Holy Mole! By Caroline McAlister
- Lola’s Fandango By: Anna Witte
- Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month By Marisa Orgullo
- Quinito’s Neighborhood By El Vecindario
- My Name/Me LLamo is Gabriela By Moniea Brown
- Isabel and her Colores Go to School
- Paola Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia
- Cece Rios and the Desert of Souls By Kaela Rivera
Ready to get started?
Click the banner below to download the FREE pdf as well as an informational handout for students. This download also has resources, I CAN statements, and essential questions.
We would love it if you’d share!
Don’t forget to tag us at @soulsparklettes on social media if you do this papel picado art project with your kids or students – we love to see what you create!
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