When people say Chinese culture, we often think of paper cutting. Paper cutting is an art form with a long history in China. Traditional paper-cuts were first put on windows for decoration(装饰). That is why paper-cuts are also called "window flowers". Most paper-cuts are made of red paper, because red means good luck in Chinese culture. Today, people use paper-cuts to decorate not only windows, but also doors and other furmiture (家具), Sometimes, people use them as gifts.
Paper-cuts are popular because of their expressions of good wishes and hopes. During the Spring Festival, for example, many people put up paper-cuts of the Chinese character(汉字) "Fu" upside down on the door. 他们希望这会给他们带来好运。At wedding ceremonies(婚礼）, you can always see paper-cuts of the character "Xi". It means that the new couple can enjoy happiness together.
Paper cutting has developed into different styles in different parts of China. Paper-cuts from the north of China usually have interesting shapes. In southern China, people prefer paper-cuts with the themes(主题) of flowers, fruit, birds and fish.
学习剪纸非常容易。With a piece of paper and a knife or a pair of scissors, you can try to make your own paper-cuts. Although paper cutting is easy to start with, you need a lot of practice and imagination to become really good at it.
