Paper-Cutting is unique to Chinese culture. Generally speaking, paper-cuts are often used for religious and ceremonial purposes, and for decoration. In the past they were also offered to ancestors and gods out of people’s respect.

As for decoration, they can also decorate walls, windows, doors, columns, mirrors, lamps and lanterns in homes. Chinese people believe that the red paper-cuts on the door can bring good luck and happiness to the whole family. The paper-cuts are more often seen during traditional Chinese festivals, particularly during Chinese New Year—the Spring Festival. They are also given as presents or gifts to good friends or other family members. In Chinese traditional culture, paper-cuts can reflect many aspects of life such as prosperity, health, or harvest. In fact, not all places in China use paper-cuts as decorations.

During the Spring Festival, the character "Fu (福)" (or good luck) is pasted upside down on the door to express people’s wish for the coming of happiness in the New Year. When a man and woman get married, the red paper-cuts with the character "Shuangxi (囍)" (or double happiness) are pasted on the walls and windows of the bride’s and groom’s houses. It is believed that this paper-cut will bring the new couple happiness. At a birthday party of an old man, paper-cuts with the character "Shou (寿)" (or longevity) are often seen.

Usually paper-cutting is not easy to learn, for it asks a careful mind and great skills. But if you want to learn some basic skills, they are easy; while, if you will want to be an expert, you have to practice diligently for years. Nevertheless, anyway paper-cutting is something beautiful and worth trying. It is an art as well.