In the scrapbooking and paper arts world, paper piecing and paper piercing are used to describe two distinctly different techniques.


Paper Piecing with Layers
This technique involves cutting designs and shapes from paper, and then assembling them, sometimes in layers, to create an image or particular shape. For example, several colors and shapes of paper might be cut and assembled on a layout to create an image of a snowman or a Halloween display.

Paper Piercing with a Stencil or Template
In this technique, a stencil or template is used to provide a pattern. The stencil contains small holes which, when punched through with a paper piercing tool, create a decorate design on the paper underneath. A paper piercing tool is a pencil-shaped object with a sharp, pointed tip.

Paper Cutting
Some templates or stencils contain spaces for cutting decorative shapes in the paper underneath, using a sharp cutting tool or craft knife. Paper cutting may appear in combination with paper piercing, or it may be used alone.

For a Video Demonstration of Paper Cutting and Paper Piercing , please refer to this link: