Swiss Coasters "Heidi"

Unique Swiss paper-cutting 'Scherenschnitt' traditional design coasters. Make a difference on your table with these verry stylish coasters for glasses, cups and mugs. 

Measurements: 9 x 9 cm
Base: cork
Color: black and white

Scherenschnitte, from the German “Schere” for scissors, and “Schnitt” for cut, is the traditional craft of cutting paper with scissors or a knife. It often features a silhouette or a scene using a delicate and intricate process requiring an immense skill and meticulous attention to detail. In France it is also called 'Découpage' or 'Silhouette'.

Paper cutting finds its origins in Northern China where it was used to form stencils to decorate fine silks. Most likely, the technique found its way to Europe in the early 17th century through trade with Asia. The first decoupage found in Germany is from 1612. During the 19th century, paper cut portraits became very popular.

It is told that paper cutting as a Swiss tradition spread in rural Switzerland, as this hobby helped filling long winter nights. Cutting then was performed with scissors, knifes and even sheep shears. The designs featured landscapes of cows, goats and herdsmen and illustrated the movement of animals up to the mountain pastures and back.