Chinese paper cutting is a unique art form of handicrafts that has existed for thousands of years featuring both national and regional themes. The cut outs are mainly used to decorate doors and windows, and therefore they are sometimes referred to chuanghua (window flowers).

The oldest paper cutting is a symmetrical circle from the 6th century found in Xinjiang, China. From the 7th to 13th century, paper cutting became popular and the skills were developed throughout the Qing Dynasty. The art form spread to Japan, India, Europe and other parts of the world with different regions adopting their own cultural styles. Today, paper cuttings can be found through out China, with those in Gaomi, Shandong Province, Foshan, Guangdong Province and Yulin, Shaanxi Province the most famous ones.

Paper cuttings are usually red symmetrical designs of animals, flowers and figures. Scissors or knives are the common tools. They ornament walls, windows, doors, columns, mirrors, lamps and lanterns and are also given as gifts, especially during festivals and holidays. At the New Year's Festival, entrances are decorated with paper cuttings which are supposed to bring good luck. In Chinese culture it can reflect many aspects of life such as prosperity, health and harvest.