When thinking about crepe paper, streamers used for parties typically come to mind, but crepe paper also comes in folds or sheets that are perfect when creating large paper flowers. Using crepe paper and pipe cleaners, you can make Hawaiian flowers perfect for decorating birthday parties, going-away parties and tropical-themed parties. Get the kids involved with this easy craft for a fun family project.
Instructions
1. Cut six to eight sheets of crepe paper into 8-inch by 8-inch squares and stack them on top of each other. Depending on the size of flowers you want, you can cut any size squares. For the colors, use different shades of the same color or contrasting colors. See resources for purchasing crepe paper folds.
2. Starting at one end of the stack of crepe paper, fold the paper up, accordion-style, by making a 1-inch fold on one end of the stack of papers, turning the stack over, making another 1-inch fold on the same end as the first fold, turning the stack over and repeating the folds until all the paper is used up. Fold in half by bringing the two ends together.
3. Fold a 10-inch piece of pipe cleaner in half and slip over the middle of the folded paper. Twist tightly to secure around the paper. Continue twisting down the pipe cleaner so the loose ends are twisted into one.
4. Make 1/2-inch snips in each ends of the crepe paper, cutting out V shapes. You can also make 1-inch snips about 1/8-inch apart in each end of the paper.
5. Starting on one side, open out the layers of paper, fluffing as you go. Turn the top layer upward and the bottom layer downward, with the bottom layer creating a base for the flower. Repeat on the other side of the paper to create your Hawaiian flower.
Tags: crepe paper, 1-inch fold, bottom layer, pipe cleaner, stack over