Craft Ideas With Paper: 38 Ways To Beat Creative Block

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Paper crafting is a fun and accessible way to unleash your creativity without needing many supplies or fancy tools.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter, simple craft ideas with paper allow you to create stunning projects that add a personal touch to any space.

In this article, we’ll explore 38 easy paper crafts that are perfect for all ages.

From decorating your room to making gifts or accessories, these DIY projects will help you transform ordinary sheets of paper into extraordinary works of art.

When Creativity Hits Pause

We’ve all been there — staring at blank paper, waiting for inspiration that refuses to show up. But here’s the thing: sometimes the best way to find creativity is to make it.

Paper crafts are one of the easiest ways to shake off creative burnout. They don’t demand fancy tools, just your hands, imagination, and a little mess. Before you know it, your “I can’t think of anything” day turns into “I just made something adorable.”

This article isn’t about the same old paper flower tutorials or origami cranes you’ve seen a hundred times. We’re diving into unexpected ways to use paper to unlock creativity again.

Before You Start: Set Up a “Creativity Zone”

You don’t need a fancy craft studio. You just need a small space that tells your brain, “We’re in creative mode now.”

Here’s how to prep it:

Keep a basket with different paper textures (tissue, cardboard, scrapbook paper, etc.).
Have your go-to tools — scissors, glue, double-sided tape — within reach.
Add one thing that inspires you: a candle, a quote card, or a Pinterest board printout.

Pro tip: Avoid clutter. Mess sparks ideas, but chaos kills flow.

38 Craft Ideas With Paper

1. Paper Flowers

A classic paper craft, paper flowers are simple to make and can add a burst of color and texture to any room.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors
Glue or tape
Pencil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into petal shapes.
Curl the edges to create a 3D effect.
Glue the petals in layers to form a flower.
Add leaves if desired.

Picture This:

Picture a vibrant bouquet of paper flowers brightening up your workspace or home! If you enjoy paper flowers, visit craft ideas for paper flowers for more creative designs.

2. Paper Plate Wall Art

Paper plate wall art is a fun and unique way to decorate your space with simple materials. This craft works well for both kids and adults.

What You’ll Need:

Paper plates
Paint or markers
Scissors
Glue or tape

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Decorate the paper plate with paint or markers.
Cut the plate into various shapes or designs.
Attach the plate to the wall using glue or tape.

Picture This:

Imagine a wall filled with colorful, hand-decorated paper plates in various shapes, adding a fun and whimsical touch to your space! For more paper craft ideas, check out craft ideas for paper plates.

3. Paper Butterflies

Paper butterflies are light, delicate, and can be easily attached to walls, windows, or used in centerpieces for events.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut out butterfly shapes from the paper.
Fold the wings to create dimension.
Attach the butterflies to the wall or any surface of your choice.

Picture This:

Picture colorful butterflies fluttering across your wall, adding a sense of movement and life! You can also check out craft ideas for paper stars for more enchanting paper crafts.

4. Paper Mâché Bowls

Transform simple paper into a beautiful and functional paper mâché bowl that can be used as a decorative piece or to hold small items.

What You’ll Need:

Paper (newspaper or tissue paper)
Glue or flour paste
Balloon (optional)
Paint (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Mix glue and water to create a paste.
Dip paper strips into the paste and layer them over a balloon or bowl.
Once dry, remove the balloon and decorate with paint.

Picture This:

Imagine a beautifully textured paper mâché bowl, perfect for displaying decorative objects or as a statement piece in your living room! For other creative ideas, check out craft ideas with paper for adults.

5. Paper Chains

A paper chain is a simple, colorful, and festive way to decorate for holidays or celebrations.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors
Glue or tape

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into strips.
Form each strip into a link and glue or tape the ends together.
Connect multiple links to form a long chain.

Picture This:

Picture a long, vibrant paper chain draped across your wall, bringing a joyful, celebratory vibe to any occasion! For other simple crafts, take a look at craft ideas for paper and glue.

6. Paper Star Ornaments

Paper star ornaments are perfect for hanging on your tree, in windows, or even as year-round décor.

What You’ll Need:

Paper
Scissors
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into star shapes.
Layer the stars on top of each other for added dimension.
Glue the stars together and hang them on strings.

Picture This:

Imagine sparkling stars hanging from your ceiling, catching the light and adding a whimsical touch to your space! If you love stars, visit craft ideas for paper stars for more inspiration.

7. Paper Cup Flowers

Paper cup flowers are a fun and simple way to create a mini garden for your desk or any small space.

What You’ll Need:

Paper cups
Colored paper
Scissors
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into petal shapes.
Attach the petals to the rim of the paper cup.
Add leaves or other details to complete the flower.

Picture This:

Imagine a collection of bright and cheerful paper cup flowers sitting on your windowsill or desk, creating a colorful atmosphere! If you’re looking for more fun crafts, check out craft ideas with paper for decoration.

8. Paper Stencils

Paper stencils can be used for painting or drawing, and are a great way to personalize your items or walls.

What You’ll Need:

Thick paper (cardstock works well)
Scissors
Pencil
Paint (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Draw a design or shape on the paper.
Cut out the design to create a stencil.
Use the stencil for painting or tracing.

Picture This:

Picture a beautifully stenciled pattern on your wall, adding a personal touch that showcases your style! You can find more stenciling ideas at craft ideas with paper for room.

9. Paper Origami

Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into intricate shapes. It’s a perfect way to practice precision and create detailed paper art.

What You’ll Need:

Square pieces of paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow origami patterns or instructions to fold the paper into shapes.
Use different colors or patterns to create unique designs.

Picture This:

Imagine a series of intricate paper animals or flowers arranged on your shelf, each one a masterpiece of precision! For other folding techniques, explore craft ideas with paper easy.

10. Paper Leaf Garland

Create a simple and charming paper leaf garland to hang across your room, mantle, or doorway.

What You’ll Need:

Green paper
Scissors
Glue or tape

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into leaf shapes.
Attach the leaves to a string or ribbon to create a garland.
Hang the garland wherever you like.

Picture This:

Picture a garland of delicate paper leaves draped across your living room, bringing a fresh, natural feel to your space! Check out craft ideas for paper wall art for more ideas.

11. Paper Collage Art

Paper collage art involves cutting out shapes from different colored papers and gluing them to create a layered, textured artwork.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into shapes and patterns.
Layer the pieces on a piece of background paper.
Glue everything in place.

Picture This:

Imagine a stunning collage made from vibrant pieces of paper, forming a dynamic, textured artwork on your wall! For more paper art ideas, visit craft ideas for paper and glue.

12. Geometric Paper Wall Art

Add a modern touch to your wall with geometric paper wall art. This craft uses simple shapes and patterns to create an eye-catching design.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper (various colors)
Ruler
Scissors
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Use the ruler to measure and cut the paper into various geometric shapes (triangles, squares, circles).
Arrange the shapes into a pattern or design on the wall.
Attach the shapes to the wall with glue or double-sided tape.

Picture This:

Imagine sleek geometric patterns of triangles and squares in bold colors, creating a modern design that adds sophistication to your space! Want to see more geometric projects? Visit craft ideas for paper and glue for additional creative designs.

13. Paper Cut Wall Art

Create intricate and delicate designs with paper cut wall art. This technique allows you to cut fine details into paper to create a sophisticated look.

What You’ll Need:

White paper
Exacto knife or scissors
Glue
Frame (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Draw your design on the paper.
Carefully cut out the design using an Exacto knife or scissors.
Frame the paper or attach it directly to the wall.

Picture This:

Imagine a beautiful, intricate paper design that pops off your wall, with every delicate cut showcasing your creativity! For more paper-cut ideas, explore craft ideas with paper for decoration.

14. Paper Towel Roll Wall Organizer

An innovative way to keep your space organized, a paper towel roll wall organizer adds function to your decor while being eco-friendly.

What You’ll Need:

Paper towel rolls
Glue
Paint or fabric (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper towel rolls into smaller sections.
Paint or wrap the rolls with fabric for decoration.
Glue the rolls to the wall in a grid pattern to create an organizer.

Picture This:

Imagine a creative wall organizer made of paper towel rolls, each section holding pens, markers, or small supplies! If you love organizational crafts, check out craft ideas for paper towel rolls.

15. Paper Circle Wall Design

A fun and modern craft, paper circle wall designs can add a playful touch to any room.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors
Glue or tape

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into circles of various sizes.
Arrange the circles in a random or patterned design.
Attach them to the wall with glue or tape.

Picture This:

Picture a whimsical wall filled with colorful circles of all sizes, adding an eclectic and fun touch to your room! Check out craft ideas for paper and glue for more creative paper-based crafts.

16. Paper Lanterns

Paper lanterns can add a touch of charm to your classroom or a school event. They’re a classic craft that’s easy to make and customizable with various designs and colors.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors
Glue or tape
String or LED lights (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Start by cutting strips along the paper length, leaving about an inch at the top uncut.
Roll the paper into a tube and secure the edges with glue or tape.
Fold the uncut part at the top to create a handle.
For a more festive look, add lights inside or hang the lanterns from the ceiling.

Picture This:

Picture the glow of colorful paper lanterns illuminating your classroom during a festive event or a night-time project presentation! Want more ideas for decorative paper crafts? Check out our aesthetic craft ideas with paper.

17. Paper Circuit Cards

Combine technology with creativity by making paper circuit cards. This craft merges paper and electrical circuits to create greeting cards that light up. It’s an ideal project for school science fairs or as a fun experiment to teach basic circuits.

What You’ll Need:

Paper
Copper tape
LED lights
A coin cell battery

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Design a card with a simple circuit path on the paper.
Attach copper tape following the path, leaving a gap where the battery and LED will connect.
Secure the LED in place with copper tape.
Attach the battery and close the circuit to light up the card.

Picture This:

Picture the look of amazement as your paper card comes to life, lighting up with a colorful LED as you complete your project! For more fun circuit-based crafts, see craft ideas with paper for school.

18. Paper Towel Roll Sculptures

Paper towel rolls are not only great for recycling, but they can also be used to create unique sculptures or organizational tools for your classroom.

What You’ll Need:

Paper towel rolls
Scissors
Paint or markers

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper towel rolls into various sizes and shapes.
Paint and decorate each roll.
Glue the pieces together to form sculptures like animals, buildings, or abstract shapes.

Picture This:

Imagine a classroom full of creative sculptures made from paper towel rolls, with each one showcasing different shapes and designs. Need more easy projects? Check out craft ideas with paper easy for more inspiration.

19. Paper Book Covers

Help your students personalize their textbooks or notebooks with colorful and unique paper book covers. This is a fun way to keep books protected while expressing creativity.

What You’ll Need:

Paper
Markers or stickers
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Measure and cut the paper to fit your book.
Decorate the paper with designs, names, or themes.
Wrap the paper around the book and secure it with glue.

Picture This:

Imagine a shelf full of books each with its own beautifully decorated paper cover, making each student’s book truly unique! Want to explore more crafting ideas? Visit craft ideas for paper flowers for more inspiration.

20. Paper Cup Animals

End your list of craft ideas with paper for school with these adorable paper cup animals. It’s a fun way for students to create their favorite animals using simple materials.

What You’ll Need:

Paper cups
Paint, markers, or paper scraps
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Paint or decorate the paper cup to resemble an animal (like a cat, lion, or bear).
Use paper scraps or markers to create the face, ears, and body features.
Secure the pieces in place with glue.

Picture This:

Picture an entire zoo of paper cup animals displayed on a shelf, each one uniquely designed by your students! For more crafting fun, check out craft ideas for paper plates.

21. Paper Jewelry

Design and create beautiful jewelry with paper! You can make earrings, necklaces, and bracelets from paper, giving them a unique touch that’s easy to personalize.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors
Glue
Jewelry findings (for earrings or necklaces)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into shapes for your jewelry.
Glue the pieces together and let them dry.
Attach jewelry findings for a finished look.

Picture This:

Imagine a collection of colorful paper earrings, each one unique and eye-catching. These craft ideas with paper will make your accessories stand out! For more ideas, explore craft ideas for paper stars.

23. Paper Gift Wrap

Wrap your presents with personalized paper you create yourself. This simple craft adds a special touch to your gifts.

What You’ll Need:

Paper
Markers, stamps, or paint
Ribbons or embellishments

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper to fit your gift.
Decorate the paper with stamps, drawings, or collages.
Wrap the gift and add finishing touches.

Picture This:

Picture your gift wrapped in unique, hand-decorated paper, ready to be presented. These craft ideas with paper are the perfect way to add a personal touch to your gifts. For more creative wrapping ideas, check out craft ideas for paper plates.

24. Paper Masks

Craft fun and creative masks for dress-up play, parties, or Halloween. These masks can be customized with your favorite designs, making them a great craft for all ages.

What You’ll Need:

Paper (plates or cardstock)
Scissors
Glue
Markers, paint, and decorations

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into the shape of a mask.
Decorate with markers, glitter, and other embellishments.
Attach a string or stick for wearing.

Picture This:

Picture a collection of colorful paper masks, each one uniquely decorated for a themed event or costume party. These craft ideas with paper will make your next celebration even more fun! For more creative costume ideas, explore craft ideas for paper stars.

25. Paper Dolls

Design and craft your very own paper dolls. This classic craft idea can be as simple or as detailed as you like, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.

What You’ll Need:

Paper
Scissors
Markers or colored pencils
Glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Draw a simple doll shape on the paper.
Add clothes and accessories to your doll.
Cut everything out and glue the doll to a background.

Picture This:

Imagine a collection of paper dolls, each wearing different outfits you’ve designed. These craft ideas with paper are a fun way to get creative and interactive. For more kid-friendly projects, check out craft ideas for kids with paper.

26. Paper Wall Hangings

Add a touch of texture to your room with a paper wall hanging. These are perfect for adding vertical interest and visual depth. Whether you go for modern minimalist or something more intricate, these hangings are easy to make and personalize.

What You’ll Need:

Paper (colored or patterned)
Scissors and a ruler
String or dowel for hanging

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into strips or geometric shapes.
Arrange them in a creative pattern (e.g., layered tassels, abstract art).
Attach them to a string or dowel to create a hanging decoration.

Picture This:

Imagine a beautiful paper wall hanging cascading down your wall, creating a modern and artistic vibe that’s both stylish and easy to make. If you’re looking for additional craft ideas for paper wall art, explore our other options.

27. Paper Garlands

Paper garlands are an easy and affordable way to add fun and personality to your room. You can make them as simple or elaborate as you like. These can also work as party decorations or simply as a pop of texture in your space.

What You’ll Need:

Paper (construction paper or scrapbook paper)
Scissors and string
Glue or a hole punch

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut paper into shapes such as circles, stars, or hearts.
Attach them to a string using glue or a hole punch to create evenly spaced designs.
Hang the garland across a wall, window, or shelf.

Picture This:

Picture a cheerful paper garland strung across your window, adding a festive touch to your room every day. It’s an easy way to bring joy and color into any space.

28. Paper Clocks

Make a custom paper clock that suits your room’s theme. It’s both functional and fun, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you created it yourself.

What You’ll Need:

Paper for the clock face
Clock mechanism (available at craft stores)
Scissors and markers for decorating

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut a circular piece of paper for the clock face.
Draw or decorate your design on the paper.
Attach the clock mechanism to the center and assemble the hands.
Hang your paper clock on the wall.

Picture This:

Imagine glancing at your beautifully designed paper clock, a perfect balance of style and function on your wall. It’s a chic addition that fits any decor style.

29. Paper Heart Decor

Make a statement with paper hearts. These are perfect for any occasion, from a simple room refresh to a Valentine’s Day-inspired makeover.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper
Scissors and glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut paper into heart shapes of various sizes.
Layer the hearts for added dimension and glue them together.
Hang the hearts from a string or arrange them on your wall.

Picture This:

Picture a cascade of colorful paper hearts hanging in your room, adding a sweet and playful vibe to your decor. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, these paper hearts are a charming touch.

30. Paper Framed Art

Create a unique focal point on your walls with a paper framed art piece. By incorporating paper into your frames, you can make one-of-a-kind art that fits your room’s aesthetic perfectly. This is a versatile option that allows you to play with different textures and patterns.

What You’ll Need:

Paper (colored or patterned)
A frame
Scissors and glue

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut a piece of paper to fit the size of your frame.
Decorate the paper using markers, stickers, or paint.
Insert the paper into the frame and display it on your wall.

Picture This:

Imagine the vibrant pop of color from your framed paper art drawing attention in the corner of your room. It’s the perfect blend of personality and elegance, reflecting your unique taste.

31. Paper Mosaics

Let your child or even yourself dive into the world of mosaics using paper pieces! This activity helps develop creativity and is a great way to make unique art.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper (magazines work great, too)
Scissors, glue, and a base paper to stick the pieces onto

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut small pieces of paper in various colors.
Draw a simple shape or outline on the base paper.
Fill in the shape with the small pieces of paper, creating a colorful mosaic design.
Let it dry and display your masterpiece.

Picture This:

Imagine a vibrant paper mosaic coming to life as small pieces of paper come together to form a picture, whether it’s a tree or abstract design. These craft ideas with paper for project let you create one-of-a-kind artwork. Explore more with craft ideas for paper plates.

32. Paper Boats

This timeless craft can be a fun addition to your project, whether for a classroom activity or a playful decoration.

What You’ll Need:

A sheet of paper (preferably square)
Water for floating (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Fold the paper into a triangle.
Create the boat shape by folding the bottom up and securing it in place.
Decorate with markers, stickers, or paint if desired.

Picture This:

Imagine a little fleet of paper boats floating on a small pond or displayed on a table. These craft ideas with paper for project are perfect for sparking creativity. For more boat projects, check out craft ideas with paper.

33. Paper Pinwheels

Pinwheels are a fun and simple project to create with paper, and they make great decorations for events or a fun outdoor activity.

What You’ll Need:

Square sheets of paper (any color)
Scissors, glue, and a pencil with an eraser
A stick (or straw) to attach the pinwheel to

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Start by cutting a square piece of paper.
Cut along each corner towards the center, stopping about an inch from the center.
Fold each corner towards the center and glue them down.
Attach the pinwheel to a pencil or stick using a pushpin or small nail.

Picture This:

Picture a colorful paper pinwheel spinning in the breeze, bright and cheerful against a sunny sky. These craft ideas with paper for project bring a playful vibe to any space.

34. Paper Flower Wreaths

A beautiful paper flower wreath is an excellent way to introduce a splash of color and personality to your door or wall. These wreaths can be customized to any season or style.

What You’ll Need:

Colored paper (tissue, construction, or cardstock)
Scissors
Glue
A circular wreath base (foam, cardboard, or wire)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into flower shapes or petals.
Arrange the flowers around the wreath base, gluing them in place.
Layer the flowers for a full, dynamic effect.
Hang the wreath on your door or wall for a fresh and inviting look.

Picture This:

Picture a vibrant wreath of paper flowers in shades of pink, yellow, and green, hanging proudly on your front door or wall. This craft idea with paper for decoration adds a cheerful welcome to your space.

35. Paper Bunting

A paper bunting is a charming way to add a festive flair to any occasion or brighten up a plain wall.

What You’ll Need:

Colored or patterned paper
Scissors
String or twine
Glue or a stapler

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut paper into triangle shapes.
Attach the triangles to the string using glue or a stapler.
Hang the bunting along walls or across doorways for a celebratory touch.

Picture This:

Imagine a fun and colorful paper bunting hanging across your living room, perfect for adding instant festivity to any event. These craft ideas with paper for decoration are great for both everyday and special occasions.

36. Paper Wall Art

Custom paper wall art allows you to create striking designs that reflect your personal style. From abstract shapes to intricate patterns, the possibilities are endless.

What You’ll Need:

Colored or patterned paper
Scissors
Glue
A frame (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut paper into various shapes or create a design.
Arrange the pieces on a piece of cardstock or canvas.
Glue them down to create a stunning piece of wall art.

Picture This:

Imagine a beautiful piece of paper art framed on your wall, with colorful layers creating depth and dimension. These craft ideas with paper for decoration will turn any blank wall into a masterpiece.

37. Paper Embroidery Art

Elevate your paper crafting with embroidery! Combine the delicate art of embroidery with the simplicity of paper to create unique pieces of art.

What You’ll Need:

Stiff paper (cardstock or watercolor paper)
Embroidery thread and needle
Pencil for sketching design

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Sketch your desired design on the paper.
Use a needle to poke holes along the lines of the design.
Embroider through the holes with thread, creating intricate patterns or images.

Picture This:

Imagine a beautiful, hand-stitched paper design framed on your wall, adding a personal and artistic touch to your home. These craft ideas with paper for adults will bring a new level of creativity to your crafting projects.

38. Paper Bracelets

Craft unique accessories with paper to create custom bracelets that will add a personalized touch to any outfit.

What You’ll Need:

Colorful paper
Scissors
Glue
Tape

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the paper into strips.
Roll the strips into bracelet shapes and secure them with glue or tape.
Let dry and wear!

Picture This:

Picture a stack of paper bracelets, each with a different color and pattern, adding a fun and creative touch to your outfit. These craft ideas for paper and glue will make a stylish statement. For more accessory ideas, visit craft ideas for paper stars.

The Secret Ingredient: “Micro Projects” to Break Creative Block

If your brain feels stuck, don’t aim for big, ambitious crafts. Start with micro projects — small paper ideas you can finish in 10 minutes.

It’s not about perfection. It’s about momentum.
Once you complete one, your creative confidence skyrockets.

Try mini bookmarks, paper charms, or folding experiments just to get your hands moving again.

Quick Crafting Tips: Turn “Oops” Moments Into Wins

Don’t panic over mistakes. Torn paper can become texture. Smudges? Instant vintage charm.
Mix it up. Combine paper with fabric, buttons, or dried flowers for fresh ideas.
Batch your steps. Cut all your pieces first, then assemble. It saves time and frustration.
Document the process. Snap photos — they’ll inspire future projects or even your next post.

Common Crafting Traps (and How to Dodge Them)

Don’t:

Copy Pinterest projects without personalizing them. Add your twist — color, layout, or message.
Start too many crafts at once. Half-finished piles = creative guilt.
Skip clean-up. A tidy table = a clear mind for your next masterpiece.

Do:

Experiment with new paper textures.
Use recycled materials — cereal boxes, old books, gift wrap.
Embrace “imperfection” as a design style.

Wrapping It Up

These simple craft ideas with paper are a great way to inject creativity into your life without spending a lot of time or money.

Whether you’re decorating your room, creating gifts, or just having fun with a new project, there’s something for everyone.

From paper flowers to origami, you can easily craft your own personalized decor.

Get started on your next paper project today, and don’t forget to check out other creative ideas like craft ideas with paper or craft ideas for kids with paper for more inspiration!

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