To create papel picado, the artist first draws a master design on a single sheet of paper. This will serve as the template for cutting multiple images.

Begun in the 1800s, experts say ‘papel picado’ using tissue paper is probably a continuation of a far older pre-Hispanic tradition of painting ceremonial figures on paper made of fig-bark sheets.

Mexican Artisans Aim to Preserve the Centuries-Old Tradition ‘Papel Picado' for Day of the Dead Begun in the 1800s, experts say ‘papel picado’ using tissue paper is probably a continuation ...