This project involves students being introduced to digital “cut files” (.svg) in Photopea. Students learn how to design and edit .svg files (scalable vector graphic files). Steps include students tracing their design, converting their design into a vector image, resizing the artboard as needed, fine-tuning their design and exporting their files as .svg files. Students first watch a short video on how to make a layered cross. Students learn how to design and create their own layered cross by downloading .svg files in layers utilizing Photopea. Students will need to brainstorm their design by researching online different .svg cut files for their cross and sketching out their design on paper. For the week, each day students work on designing the layers of their cross for a minimum of 4 layers that will then be cut out in colored cardstock paper. Afterwards, students can adjust their designs if needed. The final project will then be assemble together with foam tape in between each layer. Students have the option to either create a layered cross, or a lighted shadow box. By following the steps, you'll be able to design a layered paper cross in Photopea, export it as SVG files for cutting, and create a beautiful, layered paper craft.
Summary of Steps:
1. Create a new document and draw the basic cross shape using the Rectangle Tool.
2. Duplicate and resize the layers to create the depth of the paper layers.
3. Use the Polygonal Lasso Tool or Pen Tool to add paper-cut effects and jagged edges to each layer.
4. Convert layers to vector shapes if needed for cutting accuracy.
5. Export each layer as a separate SVG file for cutting.
6. Upload the SVG files to your cutting machine software and cut the layers.
7. Assemble the layers into a 3D paper cross.
