The fan originated in the hot tropical countries. We know ancient Egypt had fans because there were very ornate ones found in King Tut's tomb. These fancy feather fans and more common palm fiber fans matched the ones shown in Egyptian paintings on tomb walls. The more ordinary fans were used for everyday purposes.
Greek and Roman ladies had fans made of lotus leaves or peacock feathers. These fans did not fold or close, but were in a fixed position and held by a handle.
The first feather fans used in Europe were made from the whole wing of a bird, such as ducks, chickens or pheasants. Ladies would have the wings set into a holder made of wood or metal. As time went on and trade routes were opened, the fans became more ornate and used more colorful feathers, such as peacock and ostrich.
The folding fan was first used in the Far East, probably in Japan and then China. It eventually was introduced to the Mediterranean areas where it was hot enough to need fans frequently. The folding fans were made of either paper or silk stretched over wooden sticks. Eventually, they almost replaced the feather fan.
The sticks of the European fans were elaborately carved and decorated. They were made of ivory, mother-of-pearl, horn, wood, and tortoise shell, while the fan leaves were made of vellum and paper, which were both hand painted and printed.
We are going to learn how to make our own fans so we can keep cool this summer.
We will start with a very basic design. You can then use your own interests or imagination to decide how to decorate yours.
Summer Fan
Adult supervision advised. The corrugated plastic can be very sharp if cut to a point. Keep the edges on your fan rounded.
Supplies:
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