Paper Cut & Lantern SVG Maker

Generate folded paper-cut medallions, palace lanterns and Chinese knots as vector SVG — pick the symmetry, colours and paper, then download SVG or PNG

How these drawings are made

Every shape is drawn in the browser as vector geometry — folded medallions are generated from one wedge repeated around a centre, lanterns from a symmetric body with ribs and tassels, and knots from an interlaced cord grid. Nothing is traced from a photograph or a scanned antique, so the result stays crisp at any size and can be edited in Illustrator, Figma or Inkscape. Colours are suggestions: change them to match your own palette.

Tip: the SVG keeps a transparent background if you choose it, which makes it easy to drop onto packaging, posters or red paper.

Frequently asked questions

What does “folded” mean in a paper-cut medallion?

A traditional round paper cut is made by folding paper into equal wedges, cutting one wedge, then opening it out. The tool does the same thing mathematically: one wedge is drawn and repeated 6, 8 or 12 times around the centre.

Can I print these at home?

Yes. Download the SVG or PNG, place it in any document at the size you need, and print. Vector output can be enlarged to A3 or larger without losing edge quality.

Are these accurate reproductions of antique patterns?

No, and they are not meant to be. They are original geometric interpretations of common folk motifs. If you need a reproduction of a specific historical paper cut, use a museum image with the appropriate rights.

Suggested uses Window decoration, greeting cards, packaging, book covers, classroom craft sheets and festival posters.

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