Inspiration for this Floral Tree of Life comes from the Polish paper cutouts (Wycinanki) collection at the Museum of International Folk Art. Wycinanki, is a form of folk art most known in the cultures of Poland, the Ukraine and Belarus. Like many folk arts, this form evolved out of a functional practice. In the 1800's women hung sheep skins over their farmhouse window openings to keep out the elements. To let in light and air, the women used shears to snip small openings in the skins. The openings evolved into more refined designs that were transferred to paper allowing for more embellishment. Over time a new Polish craft tradition was created. This kit is made of plywood and unpainted. Decorate with acrylic paint or markers. Dimensions of finished tree 10 3/4" high x 8" wide. Pictured Wycinanki by Stanislawa Bakula, Kadzilo, Ostroika, Poland, 1960, cut paper. Museum of International Folk, Santa Fe