Frequently Asked Questions

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Where/when did you learn to work with paper?

While at OCADU, I was already working in printmaking and book arts —practices that lended themselves naturally to a curiosity and exploration in working with paper. After printing on and binding with it, I began to cut away at it. Within a few weeks, I went from cutting my first piece (a birthday card for a friend) to exhibiting a new body of work in the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair.

Since then I’ve made paper-cut pieces ranging in size from under three square inches (Tiny Blades Project!) to room-sized paper installations.

How long does a piece take?

I purposely don’t keep track of exactly how long each piece takes me to finish. It can take many hours - or days/weeks for larger pieces - depending on size and complexity. Sometimes planning the piece takes far longer than its execution; sometimes it’s the other way around.

Do you draw on the paper?

Not exactly. I’ll sketch out my ideas on a separate surface altogether and will refer to that drawing while I cut. To see what I’m doing on my “cutting” paper, though, I’ll isolate the image area by making indentations on the sheet or burnishing lines.

What tools do you use?

Cutting mat, precision knife, spare blades, and a really good light.

What kind of paper do you use?

I’ll cut any kind of paper but I mainly use Japanese paper (also known as washi), which is extremely strong while also being thin.

Do you teach workshops?

Yes! Please see the Events page for upcoming paper-cutting workshops.

May I post about your work on my blog / website / insta?

Of course! And thank you! Just link and give credit where it’s due.

I’m not sure how to pronounce your name and I’m shy even to be asking this.

Annyen rhymes with “canyon” (or you can think of the banyan tree).

Where else can we find you?

@tinybladesproject on Instagram is where new pieces are posted.
Work not part of Tiny Blades Project can be found here, or at Galerie Youn and Mayberry Fine Art.

SHOP FAQ

How do I make an order?

For prints and enamel pins, head on over to the shop.
For hand-cut paper pieces, with close to 800 original pieces it is a bit of an inventory nightmare to handle with the launch of a new online store. I will gradually post original pieces when I get the swing of things; for now, please message me if interested about a specific work.

How are your prints packaged?

The prints are packaged with an acid-free matboard enclosed within a clear plastic sleeve. They are shipped flat, protected inside a bubble mailer.

When will my order be shipped?

Orders are shipped within 1-3 business days.

Do you do wholesale?

I only sell directly for original paper-cut pieces.
I do wholesale, however, for enamel pins and prints. Message me if you’re interested!

When will my order arrive?

In Canada, smaller items will take 2-4 business days to arrive. You'll have to be a little more patient with the large prints which may take up to 13 business days for Canada Post to get them to you.
In the US, it will take 2-4 business days via USPS First-Class Mail®.
The time it takes for international orders to get to you will be determined by the shipping option you select at checkout.
Unfortunately, we cannot issue refunds for damaged, lost, unclaimed or undeliverable shipments. Any additional fees incurred with the shipping carrier or customs will be the customer's responsibility.

Where can I find Tiny Blades Project products in-person?

For shows and fairs, see the Events page!
Also check out our stockists and support those wonderful, small-business vendors.