Scissor Whizz

If you are a whizz with cutting things out, you might like to follow these simple instructions to make your own Rose Window, like the stained glass version found in Durham Cathedral!

You will need... Before you get started make sure you have all things on the list below: A Printer (to print out the template below) A4 Paper A Pencil 30cm Ruler Tracing Paper Scissors Black Poster Paint (and a paint pot) A Thin Paint Brush A Glue Stick Tissue Paper (in various colours) ... and about an hour of spare time!

Before you begin, make sure you have a nice space to work in and have covered your clothes and the table, to make sure they are protected from paint and glue. Remember, always take care when using scissors and ask a responsible adult to help with cutting.

Step One

Take a piece of white A4 paper and trim off the top to make a square which measures 21 x 21cm. Fold the paper into four equal sections, so that you make a smaller square which measures 10.5 x 10.5cm.

Step Two

Fold the small square in half diagonally, to make a triangle. Make sure to keep the closed point at the top...

	Step Three Click on the triangle to see a printable template (10kb). You will need to use the browser 'File' menu, select 'Print' and click 'OK' to print the template onto A4 paper. After printing you should click the 'Back' button in your browser to return to this page of instructions.

Step Four

Using a pencil and tracing paper carefully copy the template onto your folded triangle. Make sure the 'closed point' stays at the top, or your window will fall to pieces when you come to cut the shape out!

Step Five

Carefully cut out the shape, making sure you only remove the grey areas. Some of the cutting out is quite tricky, but try to be really neat as this will gain better results in the end. Remember, always take care when using scissors and ask a responsible adult to help with cutting.

Step Six Open the folded paper, being careful not to tear your cut out! You will now be able to see the Rose Window taking shape. Use black poster paint to colour one side of your cut out, this will make up the window frame. Allow the paint to dry properly.

Step Seven

Turn your cut out over and cover the back in glue. Next cut or tear your coloured tissue paper into small strips. Stick the tissue paper onto the back of the cut out, to make a 'stained glass' effect.

Step Eight

Allow the glue to dry properly before hanging your window up. If you hold your window to the light you will be able to see the full stained glass effect. Why not take a look at the real Rose Window in Durham Cathedral!

Did you know... The Rose Window can be found in the 'Chapel of Nine Altars' on the eastern side of Durham Cathedral. It was built in the 15th Century and measures 90 feet across!