How to Make a Paper Cut Front Door Box Frame

The best way to start is with a photograph of the door you want to recreate in paper form.

Mark the rough area of your door on grey card, then draw out the shapes that make up the door (I like to use a mechanical pencil as it gives a very precise line)

Create the bricks around the edge of the door. To do this select the colours you want to use, try and match this as closely as possible to your inspiration but it's always fun to add different textures of paper (I love this metallic one!)

To create the bricks, cut a small amount of each colour; about 5cm x 5cm is more than enough for this project. Back this onto the A4 sheets of double-sided sticky paper and carefully cut out the bricks. You can vary the sizes but I tend to use 1cm by 5mm.

Top tip! I use the grid on the ruler to help me measure, it's also a good way to make sure you are drawing a straight line/90 degree angle.

Next start to create the 3D elements. I started with the bottom step. To make this, draw a simple rectangular net to the width required so it will stick out by roughly 1cm. (I use an embossing tool, and a folder to make sure the fold lines are clean.)

For the roof, trace the shape, then cut out multiples of this in mount board and attach them together using double-sided tape to the desired height.

To cover the edges cut strips of paper (backed with double sided tape) to the correct width. Doing the same for the front and then added some extra details to create depth.

Then using the same colour paper cut out the base layer.

For the door start with a larger rectangle before moving on to cut out smaller rectangles to create the panels (make sure you have backed them onto double sided tape before cutting to make it easier to stick it all together).

Next it's time to add some detail including the letterbox and door handles. (Look at the shapes and simplify them down, making sure to look out for scale).

For the detail of the window – use a pearlescent card and draw out the detail to get the sections even before cutting. (To stick this down I used the Inrticut pen, which gives you a firm hold if you use it quickly, but you can leave it to go a bit tacky and then you are able to remove it if you need to. It also dries clear which is a bonus if it does get a bit messy.)

To create the columns roll the paper into tubes securing at the end (top tip: to avoid creases and for a smoother finish roll the paper the way it naturally bends – with the grain.)

Remember to add in all the desired details such as the moldings at the top and bottom of the pillars. When doing this look at the simple shapes and build up the layers. This is also a good point to add in anything you like to make it seasonal or extra special, a Christmas wreath perhaps.

Carefully stick the different elements together a bit like and puzzle and then finish it off by trimming down the edges and securing with double sided onto a piece of mount board cut to the size of the frame.

When I mount my work I try and make sure it is central to the paper and always leave the glass off as I feel it is more intriguing! Once this is done all that left is to sit and enjoy your work!