Design Camp: Paper Sculpture for 11 to 14 year olds

In this full-day workshop, young people will explore the creative possibilities of paper folding and make their own three-dimensional sculpture exploring motifs related to the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse.

Guided by paper sculptor Peter Ayres, participants will learn to shape their ideas using paper craft techniques through simple, engaging exercises. They will transform ordinary sheets of paper into expressive forms while acquiring new artistic skills.

The day begins with an introduction to the history of paper sculpture, followed by a practical session covering essential techniques such as straight and curved folding, cutting, and joining. Through a series of guided exercises and playful experimentation, young people will develop an understanding of how flat sheet materials can be transformed into vibrant three-dimensional forms.

In the afternoon, participants will put these techniques into practice by creating their own designs. By the end of the day, they will have learned handcrafting skills, gained a deeper understanding of paper as a richly creative material with sculptural potential, and produced a selection of festive paper models.

Learning outcomes:

• Principles of straight and curved folding

• Theory of paper folding

• Creative folding processes

• Sculpting with paper

• How to make complex objects from simple elements

Please note:

• This workshop is suitable for young people aged 11-14. All participants must be dropped off and picked up by an adult. You can find additional information in the sections below

• Capacity is limited, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment

• All equipment and materials will be provided, but participants will need to bring a packed lunch

• All participants must be dropped off and picked up by a parent, carer or responsible adult. A member of our team will greet you on arrival and sign participants in

• We ask all bookers to provide an emergency contact name and number. Please ensure this person is available for the duration of the session

• The workshop content is tailored to a specific age group. Participants outside the advertised age range may find the session less accessible or engaging

• If there’s anything we can do to support your child’s participation, whether around mobility, communication, sensory processing, emotional regulation or anything else, you’re welcome to let us know at checkout. Sharing access needs is entirely optional and helps us prepare the session in the most inclusive way

• This session has capacity for up to 20 participants, led by one or two facilitators, with a typical adult-to-child ratio of 1:10

• If your child receives additional support in their education setting, you are welcome to bring a supporting adult with them at no extra cost. Please note that we are not able to provide one-to-one support ourselves

• If you have any questions or want to discuss specific access requirements, please get in touch with the team at DMAcademy@designmuseum.org

Background image: Peter Ayres