What is Quilling? Quilling, or paper filigree, is the art of rolling, coiling, and shaping strips of paper to create a 3-dimensional design. Quilling has been practiced as an art form for centuries, dating as far back as to Ancient Egypt when a bird feather (quill) was used as the primary tool. Quilling eventually made its way to America with the Pilgrims and, although the practice waned in the 19 th century, it is now undergoing a renaissance as contemporary artists have rediscovered the traditional techniques and are adding new unique and distinctive varieties to bring this art form to the 21st century.