Hello, fellow crafters! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your love than with a handmade Victorian puzzle purse? This delightful and intricate paper craft is perfect for sending a heartfelt message to someone special. As a professional artist, painter, ceramic maker, and DIY enthusiast, I love sharing creative projects that bring joy and a touch of nostalgia. So, let’s dive into this fun and engaging craft together!
What is a Victorian Puzzle Purse?
The Victorian puzzle purse has a rich history as a romantic token. Originating in the 1700s, these paper puzzles were often used to send personal messages for Valentine’s Day[1]. Each folded section of the purse would contain a message, revealed as the recipient carefully unfolded the intricate design. This method of conveying affection added an element of surprise and delight, making the puzzle purse a cherished keepsake.
The artistry of the puzzle purse can be traced back to the Japanese paper folding technique of tatogami, a precursor to origami[2]. By the early 1700s, the puzzle purse had made its way to England and Colonial America, where it became a popular means of exchanging romantic messages[2]. The intricate folds and detailed decorations, often featuring flowers, birds, vines, and hearts, symbolized the beguiling nature of love and courtship[2].
Today, the Victorian puzzle purse continues to captivate the imagination, providing a unique and heartfelt way to present tokens of love, private messages, or unexpected treats[2]. Whether for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, making a puzzle purse is a true labor of love that connects us to a timeless tradition. Can you think of a better craft? This is a hit for all ages.
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Materials Needed:
- Cardstock: Technically any paper can work, but I really recommend a high-quality cardstock. Sturdy paper is important for all the folding and decorating!
- Decorating Supplies: I used markers, but this can be open-ended to any art tools you have! take this as an opportunity to be creative and put something new to use. If you haven’t purchased already, try out these Micron pens! Super fine tip and comes in a variety of colors.
- Scissors: Having a high-quality pair of scissors makes crafting fun!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Victorian Puzzle Purse
1. Prepare the Paper
Start with a Square: Begin with a square piece of paper. The size can vary, but a 12×12 inch piece is a good starting point. This size provides enough space for detailed designs and messages. TIP: If your starting paper is a rectangle (like mine!) then you can fold diagonally, and then cut into a square, basing off the triangle pattern
Fold Diagonally: Fold the paper diagonally from corner to corner in both directions to form an ‘X’. These creases will help with the folding process later. Unfold the paper again. The diagonal folds add flexibility to the paper, making it easier to create the intricate folds of the puzzle purse.
2. Fold in Thirds
Create a Grid: Fold the paper into thirds both horizontally and vertically to create a grid of nine equal squares. Use a ruler to ensure the folds are precise. Unfold the paper after making the creases. This grid will serve as the foundation for your victorian puzzle purse.
3. Mark the Center
Identify the Center Square: The center square of the grid will be where your main message goes. You can write your message now or make a faint mark in pencil to remind yourself where it will be. This is the heart of your puzzle purse, so make it special!
What if I don’t know what to write??
I learned how to make Victorian Puzzle Purses from my Grandma. I remember sitting at the old oak table with her and watching her hands fold the paper into such crisp lines. I loved to decorate and doodle along the edges, but writing out a message and centerfold note was so intimidating. I struggled for a long time to put my words and thoughts into feelings (ironic isn’t it!). The experience of writing out heartfelt or fun messages taught me to love writing. As Grandma always said, the worst words are the ones unspoken.
Romantic Messages
- Poems: Write a short, romantic poem or a few lines from a favorite love poem. Poetry has a timeless quality that can beautifully express your feelings. Consider classic poets like Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, or even a few heartfelt lines of your own creation.
- Example: “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways…”
- Quotes: Include a meaningful quote about love or friendship. Quotes can succinctly capture deep emotions and resonate with the recipient.
- Example: “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.” – Aristotle
- Personal Notes: Write a personal message expressing your feelings and appreciation. This could be a reflection on your relationship, a thank you for their support, or simply a note to say how much they mean to you.
- Example: “Every day with you is a new adventure. Thank you for being my rock and my inspiration.”
Fun and Playful
- Riddles: Add a fun riddle or puzzle for the recipient to solve. This adds an element of playfulness and engagement.
- Example: “I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with the wind. What am I?” (Answer: An echo)
- Jokes: Include a light-hearted joke to bring a smile to their face. A bit of humor can make your message even more memorable.
- Example: “Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!”
- Drawings: Sketch a small, cute drawing or doodle. This could be a heart, a flower, or something that has special meaning to both of you. Artistic touches add a personal flair.
Sentimental Touches
- Memories: Write about a cherished memory you share with the recipient. Reflecting on shared experiences can strengthen your bond and bring back happy moments.
- Example: “Remember our first trip to the beach? The sunset was beautiful, but your smile made it unforgettable.”
- Future Plans: Mention something you’re looking forward to doing together. This shows your commitment and excitement for the future.
- Example: “I can’t wait for our next adventure together. Here’s to many more sunsets and starry nights.”
- Affirmations: Share positive affirmations or words of encouragement. This can be especially meaningful if the recipient is going through a tough time.
- Example: “You are strong, capable, and loved. Never forget how amazing you are.”
Special Surprises
- Secret Codes: Use a simple code or cipher that the recipient has to decode. This adds an element of mystery and fun.
- Example: “U R M Y S T R N G T H” (You are my strength)
- Miniature Art: Create a tiny piece of art or a detailed illustration. This could be a miniature landscape, a portrait, or an abstract design.
- Example: A tiny watercolor painting of a heart surrounded by flowers.
- Hidden Messages: Write a message that can only be revealed by unfolding the purse in a certain way. This adds an interactive element to your gift.
- Example: “Unfold each corner to reveal a piece of my heart.”
Examples
- “You are my sunshine on a cloudy day.”
- “Every moment with you is a treasure.”
- “Here’s to many more adventures together!”
- “Love is the greatest gift of all.”
- “You make my heart smile.”
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a message that’s uniquely yours. The key is to make it personal and meaningful for the recipient. Now, I’ll head back to our tutorial. Happy crafting! 😊
4. Fold the Corners
Turn Over the Paper: Flip the paper so the grid lines are face down.
Fold to the Center: Fold each corner of the square into the center point of the grid, forming a pinwheel shape. Ensure the folds are crisp and align perfectly. This step transforms your flat paper into a dynamic, interactive piece.
5. Create the Puzzle Folds
Fold the Edges: With the corners folded in, fold each edge of the paper towards the center. This will create smaller triangles within the larger pinwheel shape.
Tuck and Fold: Carefully tuck the edges under each other to form a compact, folded shape. This step might require some patience to get the folds just right. The puzzle purse should now resemble a neatly folded envelope.
6. Decorate Your Purse
Add Personal Touches: Use your decorative materials to embellish the purse. You can add hearts, flowers, or any other motifs you like. Consider using watercolors for a vintage look or stickers for a modern twist. This is where you can let your creativity shine!
Write Your Message: If you haven’t already, write a heartfelt message in the center square. This could be a poem, a quote, or a personal note (For ideas on what to write, checkout an earlier section of this article). Your message will be revealed as the recipient unfolds the puzzle purse, adding an element of surprise and delight.
7. Final Assembly
Refold the Purse: Once decorated, refold the purse back into its pinwheel shape. Ensure all folds are neat and the purse holds its shape.
I’ll try to wrap this up now, but no promises!
Finally, if you’d like to continue to learn about interesting DIY options as well as how YOU can tackle creative new projects consider checking out the latest and most popular articles listed on the Hawk-Hill Home Page. I’m always trying to enjoy and write about the creative side of life so please don’t be a stranger – check back often!😍
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