Making Paper Boats

This tool was developed as part of Cultural Cwtsh, which was an online creative wellbeing hub for the health and care workforce in Wales, created by the Arts Council of Wales in collaboration with artists across the country.

In partnership with the Arts Council of Wales, we’re excited to share this mental wellbeing tool, alongside with many other creative resources, with everyone in Wales!

Lift your mood and float your boat!

I’m an artist working from my studio in North Wales. I also work within arts in health running workshops for an Arts on Prescription programme in Merseyside, and Lost in Art for people living with dementia in Denbighshire.

During lockdown both groups sought to keep creativity alive by going online. Many of the activities were designed to use materials from around the house.

Making paper boats came out of this experience. I found that this simple, quick activity enabled lots of creative exploration, as well as the opportunity for reflection.

I’m hoping you will treat yourself to a short pause to relax, and to lift your mood and your sense of well-being. No art materials or art experience required – just the permission to play, explore and enjoy – and there’s no right or wrong outcome.

AND – the big bonus is – these fragile paper boats float! So here’s a real opportunity to ‘float your boat’.

Or why not work as a team and make a flotilla!

This video was enabled through working in conjunction with artist and filmmaker Charles Gershom.

Looking forward to seeing your creations…

Sian Hughes

Equipment needed

• Paper
• Found materials
• Scissors
• Glue or other fixings

Download the Making Paper Boats PDF.