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Amber Robertson

Amber Robertson is the founder of Quill and Fox. A creative writing studio that helps people find their voice and share their stories. Amber is also a published author, with her first book slated for release in 2020. She loves spending time with her family and friends, reading, writing, and traveling. When Amber was younger, she loved to write short stories and plays. But somewhere along the way, she lost touch with her creativity. It wasn’t until she became a mom that she realized how important it was to share her stories—both the good and the bad—with the people she loves most. That’s when Quill and Fox was born. Amber is passionate about helping others find their voice and share their stories. She believes that every person has a story worth telling, and it’s her mission to help them tell it in a way that is authentic and true to themselves

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Create Stunning Paper Mache Flowers
Amber Robertson
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There are countless crafts and home decor items that can be created using paper mache. So why not try your hand at making paper mache flowers?

Making paper crafts is not only a productive hobby but also a rewarding one. From designing beautiful functional pieces to crafting home decor items, the possibilities are endless when it comes to working with paper. Paper, as a versatile medium, offers a variety of techniques that can be employed to create unique and stunning crafts. One such technique is paper mache, where strips of paper coated in a paper mache paste are layered over a mold to form an object. From paper mache masks to boxes and even flowers, there is no limit to what can be made using paper mache.

One of the best things about paper mache crafts is their lightweight and durable nature, as they can be made using any type of paper. You can also add thread, glitter, and glue to the paper mache pulp to make your crafts even more exciting and fun. Among the many beautiful creations that can be made with paper mache, flowers stand out.

How to Create Beautiful Paper Mache Flowers

Paper Mache Flowers #1

To start, gather any type of paper you have on hand, such as old newspapers or marbled craft paper. For the mold, you will need wires and buttons. If these supplies are not readily available, you can find them at any craft supply store.

What You’ll Need:

  • Paper
  • Wire
  • Wire cutter
  • Glue
  • Lightweight cardboard
  • Water
  • Cutting mat
  • Scissors
  • Paper cutter
  • Pencil

Procedure:
The first step in making paper mache flowers is creating the mold or base for the flower. Begin by placing the lightweight cardboard on the paper cutter. Mark a small circle on the cardboard and draw six petals around it. Try to make the petals symmetrical and of even size. Once satisfied with the design, cut along the pencil markings to obtain the flower shape.

Set the flower pattern aside and create four or five more patterns in a similar manner. Gently bend the petals upwards to give the pattern a three-dimensional appearance. Now, punch two small holes at the center of the cardboard pattern and thread an 8-inch wire through one hole, stringing it through the other. Twist both ends of the wire together to form the stem for the flower. Your paper mache flower mold is complete.

With the mold ready, move on to making the actual paper mache flower. Tear long and narrow strips of paper by hand, ensuring a grainy and rough texture, which adds to the charm of the finished flower. Prepare the paper mache paste by mixing two parts glue with one part water in a small bowl or container. Dip a strip of paper into the paste, remove it, and wrap it around the twisted wire. Repeat this process, layering more paper strips until the wire is fully covered.

Make sure to have at least two to three layers of paper strips across the length of the wire. Allow the glue to dry completely. Once the stem is dry, dip more paper strips into the glue and cover the cardboard petals. Each inch of the cardboard pattern should be completely covered. The torn edges of the paper strips should remain visible, adding a wonderful texture to the flower. After covering the flower pattern with two to three layers, allow the glue to dry completely. This may take a couple of hours. Placing the paper mache flower in the sun can help speed up the drying process. Once the flower hardens, paint it with acrylic paint in the color of your choice.

Paper Mache Flowers #2

What You’ll Need:

  • Paper napkins
  • Glue
  • Plastic flower
  • Water
  • Scissors

Procedure:
Begin by tearing the paper napkins into small pieces and placing them in a plastic container. In a separate container, mix one part water with two parts glue to create a paper mache paste. Pour the paste into the container with the torn napkins. Mix thoroughly until you have a thick paper pulp. The mixture should have a dense consistency, neither too runny nor watery. Transfer the mixture to a metal container and boil it for 25-30 minutes. Once the mixture reduces, allow it to cool down. Beat the cooled mixture until you achieve a thick pulp.

Next, wet your hand with water and take a small portion of the cooled paper pulp. Layer it over the plastic flower, using your hands to shape it into petals. Once satisfied with the results, allow the paper mache flower to dry in the sun. This drying process may take two to three weeks, so patience is key. Alternatively, you can speed up the drying by using a hairdryer. Once dry, paint the flower with acrylic colors to give it a polished finish.

Feel free to experiment with various patterns and materials for creating your paper mache flowers. With this newfound skill, you can craft a delightful collection of flowers in different colors to adorn your home.

Remember, Quill And Fox is a brand that offers a wide range of products and inspirations for all your crafting needs.

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