Free Printable Papel Picado Template – Easy DIY – Papel picado means “perforated paper.” It is a traditional Mexican folk art of cutting intricate designs into colorful tissue paper or lightweight plastic. The finished banners hang in strings and flutter in the breeze at celebrations.
In the United States, people use papel picado for Cinco de Mayo parties, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) ofrendas, Hispanic Heritage Month events, birthdays, weddings, and backyard fiestas. The bright colors and open cut-outs create an instant festive look that is easy to make at home.
Why Use a Free Printable Papel Picado Template?
A free printable papel picado template gives you ready-to-cut outlines. You print the design, layer it over tissue paper or colored copy paper, fold, and cut along the lines. This removes the need to draw patterns freehand and makes the craft accessible for kids, classrooms, and first-time makers.
Templates keep the designs balanced and traditional while still allowing creative color choices. They also work well with standard letter-size paper and basic scissors.
Free Printable Papel Picado Template – Easy DIY
Where to Get Legitimate Free Printable Papel Picado Templates?
Here are trusted, currently available free resources that include actual downloadable templates or clear step-by-step instructions:
- Art Projects for Kids offers an easy printable template and photo tutorial designed for colored copy paper. The PDF includes dashed fold lines and solid cut lines. Download it directly here: How-to-Make-Papel-Picado.pdf. Full instructions are on the project page: artprojectsforkids.org.
- Hallmark provides free downloadable templates and instructions for several Día de los Muertos designs (including skull motifs). Print the PDF on plain paper and follow the folding and cutting steps: Hallmark Papel Picado Templates PDF. The complete how-to is available at ideas.hallmark.com.
- PBS KIDS for Parents shares a simple, no-template-required activity that teaches folding and freehand cutting of tissue paper squares—ideal for younger children or when you want open-ended creativity: PBS KIDS Papel Picado Activity.
These sources are free to download and use for personal, educational, or non-commercial decorating purposes. Always check the individual site for any usage notes.
How to Make Papel Picado with a Free Printable Template?
Materials
- Free printable template (from the links above)
- Colored tissue paper, thin plastic table cover, or 20–24 lb colored copy paper
- Scissors or craft knife and cutting mat
- String, yarn, or ribbon
- Tape or glue
- Optional: hole punch
Basic Steps
- Print the template on regular paper.
- Cut tissue or colored paper to match the template size.
- Place the template on top of one or more layers of tissue and secure the top edge with tape or paper clips.
- Fold along the dashed lines shown on the template.
- Cut out the solid shapes carefully, keeping the folded edges intact so patterns repeat.
- Unfold gently and remove the template.
- Fold the top edge over a length of string and glue or tape it in place (or punch holes and thread the string).
- Repeat with different colors and hang the banner.
Start with simpler geometric or flower designs if you are new to the craft. Adult supervision is recommended when children use scissors or craft knives.
Tips for USA Celebrations
- Use traditional bright colors (pink, orange, purple, turquoise, yellow) for Día de los Muertos or Cinco de Mayo.
- Mix simple and detailed panels on one string for visual interest.
- Make mini versions for table décor or party favors.
- Laminate or use plastic table cover versions for outdoor durability.
- Pair with other free printable crafts such as sugar skull coloring pages or papel picado letter banners for a full display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular printer paper instead of tissue?
Yes. Colored copy paper works well and is less fragile, especially for classroom or kid projects.
How many panels do I need for a banner?
Six to twelve panels usually create a nice length for a doorway or wall.
Are the templates free for commercial use?
Most free educational and craft-site templates are intended for personal or classroom use. Check each source’s terms before selling finished items.
What if I want more designs?
After mastering a basic free printable papel picado template, try freehand cutting or combine elements from several templates.
Free printable papel picado templates make it simple to bring authentic Mexican folk-art color into any U.S. celebration. Download one of the verified PDFs above, gather some bright paper, and start cutting. Your finished banners will add movement, color, and cultural warmth to parties, classrooms, and home altars.