Create Shanghai-style Paper Cutting with Lucy (Li Shiyi)

Shanghai-style paper cutting is a traditional craft unique to Shanghai, and its most distinctive feature lies in the ingenious blend of Chinese and Western elements embedded within it. Following Shanghai’s opening as a treaty port, a wave of cultural integration between China and the West swept the city—and this craft quietly absorbed the best of both worlds: For instance, when cutting traditional auspicious patterns, it may incorporate the spires of European-style buildings on the Bund or the arched lintels of shikumen houses; alternatively, it uses the hollow-cutting technique of traditional Chinese paper cutting to create little houses and rose vines from Western fairy tales. The result is a work that boasts both the delicacy and grace of Chinese paper cutting and the vivid charm of Western design, exuding a distinct "Shanghai vibe" at a glance.

No prior experience needed! In just 1-2 hours, you’ll learn basic cutting techniques. Using the safe scissors and pre-printed "East-West fusion" templates we provide, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind piece with your own hands—and take it home as a special Shanghai memento.

Bilingual guidance (English & Chinese), a full set of materials, and hands-on assistance are all included. If you want to experience this paper cutting craft that "holds a blend of two cultures", book directly now!

Experience Highlights

Shoubai Art · Welcome Ceremony

• Learn about Shanghai-style paper cutting artworks and the origins of Shoubai Art.

Watch Live Paper Cutting Demonstration

• See the traditional tools and techniques used by Shanghai-style paper cutting artists.

Create Your Own Paper Cutting

• Under the artist’s guidance, use scissors to complete your very own paper cutting work.

Take Your Artwork Home

• Leave with a unique, exclusive paper cutting souvenir that’s one-of-a-kind to you.

Li Shiyi

I was born in Shanghai in the 1990s and hold a Master’s degree in Museums, Galleries, and Contemporary Culture from the University of Westminster (London). I’m a representative inheritor of Shanghai-style Paper Cutting (a Shanghai intangible cultural heritage), plus a cultural creative practitioner and brand strategist.

I’ve showcased this craft at key international events: the 2024 France Lyon WorldSkills Closing Ceremony (“Shanghai 8-Minute Showcase”), 2012 Yeosu Expo (South Korea), 2017 Astana Expo (Kazakhstan), 2019 45th WorldSkills (Kazan, Russia), and China International Import Expo (CIIE). As a millennial, I use digital innovation and global collaborations to refresh this traditional art. Fluent in English and Chinese, I act as an ambassador for Chinese craftsmanship—my work reflects Shanghai’s dynamic, inclusive spirit.