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Who doesn’t love flowers? They brighten up any room and are always a welcome sight. But did you know that paper flowers have a long and storied history?
Their origami roots can be traced back to ancient Japan, where they were used as ceremonial decorations. Today, paper flowers are enjoying a resurgence in popularity, thanks to the contemporary maker movement.
Countries that discovered Paper flowers
Paper flowers are believed to have originated in China during the 6th century AD. They were then introduced to Japan in the early 800s, and from there, they spread to Korea and other parts of Asia. It wasn’t until the 1700s that paper flowers made their way to Europe, and they didn’t become popular in the United States until the late 1800s.
Today, paper flowers are enjoyed worldwide, and there are many different techniques for making them. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, a paper flower is sure to be perfect for you!
In China
In China, they discovered how to make paper flowers that could be used for decoration and as a gift. The paper flowers is believed to have originated in China and were brought to Japan in the 6th century. Paper flowers were also used in religious ceremonies and as offerings to the gods.
China’s paper flowers were made from thin sheets of paper cut into shapes and then glued or stitched together. The flowers were often brightly coloured and gilded. They were used to decorate temples, homes, and public spaces.
In Mexico
The origami tradition in Mexico dates back to the Aztecs, who used paper flowers as part of their religious ceremonies. The art form was then passed down through the generations, and today, origami is still a big part of Mexican culture.
In Mexico, paper flowers are often used to decorate altars for Day of the Dead celebrations. The most popular type of origami flower is the marigold, also known as the “flower of the dead.” Marigolds are thought to guide the souls of the dead to their altars and are used to decorate gravesites.
In Europe
In Europe, origami flowers are most commonly associated with Germany, where the art form is known as Papierblumen or Scherenschnitt. The first record of origami in Germany dates back to the early 1800s when a book on the subject was published by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of the country’s most famous poets and thinkers.
Today, paper flowers are still prevalent in Germany and can be found for sale at markets and fairs across the country. They are also a typical decoration at Oktoberfest, the world-famous beer festival in Munich annually.
Different Types of Craft Paper and Their Uses
Different types of craft paper are available in the market, each with its unique set of properties and uses. Here is a quick guide to some of the most popular types of craft paper and their benefits:
Cardstock
Cardstock, or paperboard, is a thick paper stock used for paper flowers. It is stiffer than standard copy paper but not as rigid as Cardboard. Many origami artists use cardstock to create flowers because it can hold their shape better than thinner papers.
Construction Paper
Construction Paper is a stiff, heavy paper that is easy to find and relatively inexpensive. It comes in various colours, making it a good choice for paper flowers.
Paper flowers made from construction paper include roses, tulips, lilies, and daffodils. Each flower has a unique shape and requires a different origami folding technique.
Corrugated Cardboard
Corrugated Cardboard is a paper-based material consisting of a fluted corrugated sheet and one or two flat liner boards. It is widely used in packaging, especially for shipping.
This type of Cardboard is made of paper that has been treated with chemicals to give it a wavy, fluted shape. The flutes are used to support the weight of the shipped item and protect it from damage. Corrugated Cardboard is a strong and lightweight material that is also easy to recycle. It can be recycled into new packaging or turned into mulch for gardening.
Crepe Paper
Crepe paper is a type of tissue paper that is crinkled to give it a rippled texture. It is often used in arts and crafts projects, as well as in origami and other paper folding applications.
Crepe paper originated in China and was first used for ceremonial and decorative purposes. The Chinese were probably the first to wrinkle paper, which gave it its distinctive texture. This technique eventually spread to Europe, where crepe paper became widely used in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Kraft Paper
Kraft Paper is a plain brown paper that is commonly used in packaging. It is made from wood pulp and is recyclable. This material is perfect for making paper flowers because it is solid and easy to work with.
Mulberry Paper
Mulberry Paper is a technical paper initially made from the mulberry tree. It is strong and has a fibrous quality, making it ideal for origami and other crafts. The mulberry tree is native to many parts of Asia, including Japan, China, and Korea. In China, the mulberry tree has been cultivated for over 4,000 years to produce paper and silk.
Newsprint
Newsprint is a low-cost, non-archival paper for printing newspapers and other publications. It is not suited for long-term preservation because it yellows and deteriorates relatively quickly.
Paper flowers are often made from colourful papers that contrast nicely with the green of the leaves. This gives the arrangement a fresh look that can last for weeks.
Origami Paper
Origami paper is a specialized type of paper used for origami, the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. The most crucial difference between origami paper and other paper types is its weight. Origami paper is much thinner than standard copy paper, making it easier to fold.
The most common measure of origami paper is 6 inches by 6 inches (15cm by 15cm). This is a good size for beginners, as it is large enough to fold most origami models but not so large that it is unwieldy.
Scrapbook Paper
Scrapbook Paper may be the most popular choice for making paper flowers. It is easy to work with and can be found in various colours, textures, and weights. One thing to remember when using scrapbook paper is that it is not as easy to fold as traditional origami paper. The thicker nature of the article can make it difficult to get clean folds.
Tissue Paper
Tissue paper is a thin, translucent paper usually used for wrapping delicate items or for crafts. It is available in a variety of colours, patterns, and sizes.
Tissue paper flowers are a beautiful and easy way to create colourful accents for any occasion, from birthdays to weddings. And they’re not just for decoration – you can also use them to make origami ornaments, garlands, and more.
Vellum
Vellum is a type of paper that is made from animal skin. It is fragile and is used for things like scrolls, books, and documents. This material was used in ancient times and is still used today. It is durable and can last a long time if properly cared for.
Vellum can be used as a backing for paintings or as a material to write on. It is also used in bookbinding and as a covering for books. It can be dyed or decorated in different ways.
Decoupage Paper
Decoupage paper is a type of paper often used in paper flowers and other kinds of paper crafts. Decoupage paper is usually thinner than standard origami paper and has a tissue-like consistency that makes it easy to manipulate.
When origami artists use decoupage paper, they often cut the paper into small pieces and then glue the pieces together to create a three-dimensional effect. This technique is called “modular origami.” Modular origami is a type of origami that uses two or more sheets of paper that are glued or taped together.
Washi Paper
Washi paper is a traditional Japanese paper that has been made for centuries. Washi paper is made from the inner bark of three trees – the Kozo tree, the gampi tree and the mitsumata tree.
Washi paper is known for its strength, durability, and beautiful patterns and colours. You can use washi paper to make all sorts of things, from origami flowers to traditional Japanese lanterns.
Flowers to Consider when Making Paper Flowers
Some flowers need to be considered when making a paper flower. The type of origami flower will be based on the size and shape of the petals. There are many flowers to choose from when it comes to origami.
The most common origami flowers are the following.
Nyctaginaceae
Nyctaginaceae is the flower family that includes four o’clock and many other genera and species spread across the Americas. The family is notable for its wide variety of flower shapes and colours and its exciting pollination mechanisms.
Four o’clock (Mirabilis spp.) are probably the best-known members of Nyctaginaceae. These distinctive flowers open in the late afternoon and close again at dawn, hence their common name. Four o’clock is native to the Americas but has been introduced to many other parts of the world.
How to create
The origami Nyctaginaceae flower is a popular choice for many origami enthusiasts. This design is believed to have originated in Japan and is also known as the Japanese bellflower.
The origami Nyctaginaceae flower is relatively easy to make and only requires a few simple steps.
- Start with a square sheet of origami paper. If you don’t have origami paper, you can use a regular sheet of paper cut into a square shape.
- Fold the paper in half to create a crease down the centre.
- Unfold the paper and then fold it half the other way to create a second crease.
- Refold the paper along the first crease and cut along the second crease. This will create two identical pieces of origami paper.
- Please take one of the pieces of origami paper and fold it in half to create a triangular shape.
- Fold the triangle in half and then fold it in half a third time.
- Unfold the triangle and fold the two outer edges towards the centre crease.
- Fold the triangle half along the centre crease to create a smaller triangle.
- Fold the bottom point of the triangle up to meet the top end.
- Fold the triangle in half again and then curl the sides to form the petals of the origami Nyctaginaceae flower.
Bougainvillaea
Bougainvillaea is a genus of flowering plants native to South America from Brazil west to Peru and south to southern Argentina (Chubut Province). Different authors accept between four and 18 species in the genus. They are known commonly as paper flowers or bougainvilleas.
The flower bracts are showy, often brightly coloured, and act as attractors to pollinators. The actual flowers are small, white, and inconspicuous. The bracts give the plant much of its visual impact when in bloom.
How to create
Bougainvillaea origami flowers are trendy in tropical countries. They are often seen adorning walls, fences, and trellises. In making them, you need to follow simple steps:
- Cut a sheet of origami paper into a square. You can use any thin paper if you don’t have origami paper.
- Fold the paper in half to create a crease down the middle. Unfold the paper and then fold it half the other way to create a second crease.
- Fold the paper in half again, bringing the top corner down to meet the bottom. Unfold the paper.
- Take the top layer of paper and fold it down so that the point meets the crease in the middle.
- Repeat this step with the bottom layer of paper.
- Turn the paper over and fold it in half.
- Fold the paper in half again.
- You will need to cut the paper for the final step. This will create the opening for the bougainvillaea flower. Cut about 1/3 of the way down from the top of the article. Be sure not to cut through the paper.
- Unfold the paper, and you should have a perfect bougainvillaea origami flower!
Caryophyllales
The Caryophyllales, also known as the pink order, is an order of flowering plants that contains 33,000 species in 2,900 genera, making it the second-largest eudicot order after Asteraceae. The group includes many plant groups worldwide, including cactus, amaranth, and carnations.
The flowers of this order are often very showy and brightly coloured, making them popular as ornamental plants. Many species in this order are also used in the cut flower industry.
How to create
Caryophyllales’ origami flower is a beautiful and popular origami model. It is usually white with green sepals but can be made in any colour. The steps to make this origami flower are easy to follow.
- Start with a square sheet of origami paper. If you don’t have origami paper, you can use regular paper, but it won’t be as easy to work with.
- Fold the paper in half to make a crease, then unfold it.
- Fold the paper in half again, this time from top to bottom, to make a second crease. Unfold it.
- You should have four creases forming a cross in the centre of the paper.
- Take one corner of the paper and fold it over to meet the opposite side. Crease well and unfold.
- Repeat this step with the other three corners of the paper.
- You should have eight flaps folded towards the centre of the paper.
- Take one flap and fold it over to the opposite side. Crease well and unfold.
- Repeat this step with the remaining seven flaps.
- You should have 16 triangular flaps folded towards the centre of the paper.
Cactaceae
Cactaceae is a family of flowering plants in the order Caryophyllales. The family comprises 119 genera with some 1,610 known species of mostly succulent plants found in arid and semi-arid habitats, where many can store water in their stems or leaves. Cacti show various growth forms, including trees, shrubs, herbs, vines, epiphytes, and lithophytes.
How to create
The Cactaceae origami flower is a popular choice for origami enthusiasts. Its simple yet elegant design makes it perfect for any occasion.
- Cut a square piece of paper. You can use any size of paper you desire, but we recommend using a sheet of at least 8″ x8″.
- Fold the paper in half diagonally to create a triangle.
- Fold the triangle in half again to create a smaller triangle.
- Cut along the triangle’s folded edge, stopping halfway up the side. This will create a slit for your origami flower petals.
- Unfold the triangle and then refold it so that the cut edge is aligned with the opposite side.
- Cut along the folded edge, stopping halfway up the side. You should now have two slits in your origami paper.
- Unfold the origami paper and fold each corner into the centre.
- Fold the origami paper in half and then in half again.
- To finalize the origami Cactaceae flower, insert your fingers into the slits and gently pull the paper apart. You should now have a beautiful origami flower!
Lithops
Lithops are a genus of succulent plants in Aizoaceae’s ice plant family. They are native to southern Africa and resemble pebbles or rocks. The flower of a Lithops plant is typically white, yellow, or pink.
How to create
Lithops’ origami flowers are easy to make and are a great way to show your creative side. You can use any paper, but we recommend using origami paper for the best results.
- Start by folding your origami paper in half diagonally. Then, fold the triangle in half again. Next, fold the triangle in half one more time. This will create a smaller triangle.
- Now, take the top corner of the triangle and fold it down to the bottom corner. Then, take the bottom corner and fold it up to meet the top corner. This will create a pointed shape.
- Fold the paper in half again, this time horizontally. Next, take the top edge and fold it down to meet the bottom edge. This will create a rectangle.
- Fold the rectangle in half again, this time vertically. Then, take the top edge and fold it down to meet the bottom edge. This will create a square.
- Now, take one corner of the square and fold it up to meet the opposite corner. Then, take the other corner and fold it up to meet the first corner. This will create a triangle.
- Fold the triangle in half again, this time horizontally. Then, take the top edge and fold it down to meet the bottom edge. This will create a smaller triangle.
- Finally, take the top corner of the triangle and fold it down to the bottom corner. This will create an origami flower.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Art Craft
What are paper flowers called?
Paper flowers are called by a variety of names. They can be called crepe paper flowers, tissue paper flowers, or simply paper flowers.
The type of paper you use will determine the look and feel of your flower. Crepe paper is a thin, stretchy paper that makes for delicate-looking petals. Tissue paper is a bit stiffer and lends itself to more structured blooms. There is no wrong way to make a paper flower; it’s all about what you like the look of best!
Can I make money selling paper flowers?
Yes, you can make money selling paper flowers. craft shows are a great place to sell them, or you could set up a shop on Etsy. You could also try marketing them to wedding planners or other event planners.
Making paper flowers is a great way to use up scrapbooking paper and other crafting supplies, so it’s a great way to make some extra money while doing something you already enjoy. There are lots of tutorials online that can help get you started. Good luck!
How do I start a paper craft business?
There are a few things you need to consider before starting a paper craft business. First, do your research and decide what type of paper crafts you want to specialize in. Next, create a business plan and track your expenses and profits. Finally, get organized and start marketing your new business!
If you’re not sure how to get started, here are a few tips:
-Start by creating an online portfolio or shop to showcase your work.
-network with other artisans and attend craft fairs and trade shows.
-write articles about paper crafting and submit them to online publications.
-use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to promote your products.
Are paper flowers sustainable?
Yes. Paper flowers are sustainable because they are made from recycled paper.
Most paper flowers are made from recycled paper. This means that the artisans who make them don’t have to cut down any trees, and the flowers themselves can be composted after they die. So if you’re looking for a way to celebrate your love of flowers without harming the environment, consider buying some paper flowers instead!
Are paper flowers popular?
They are popular because they look so realistic, and people like to have flowers in their homes that last a long time.
Some of the artificial flowers on the market today are made from materials that look so much like natural materials, you can’t even tell them apart. The petals might be made from cloth or silk, while the leaves might be made from paper or plastic. And because they aren’t living things, you don’t have to worry about them wilting or dying. They can stay looking fresh for weeks or even months.
Who invented paper flowers?
There is no definitive answer to this question as different cultures have various claims to the invention of paper flowers. However, one of the most likely origins of this craft is China, where the earliest record of paper flowers dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). At that time, they were primarily used as decorations for ceremonial occasions.
In more recent times, paper flowers have become a popular way to embellish everything from scrapbooks and greeting cards to wedding décor and hair accessories. They can be made from a variety of materials including tissue paper, crepe paper, and even recycled magazines and newspapers.
How do you make tissue paper flowers stiff?
If you’re looking to make tissue paper flowers that have a lot of body and don’t droop, you can try using a stiffener. There are a few different ways to do this. One way is to mix a little bit of white glue or Mod Podge with water, and then brush this mixture onto the tissue paper. You can also dip the tissue paper into the glue or Mod Podge mixture.
Another way to make tissue paper flowers stiffer is to use starch. Just mix one part starch with two parts cold water, and then soak the tissue paper in this mixture until it’s completely saturated. Let the tissue paper dry completely, and then it will be nice and stiff!
How do you protect paper flowers?
To protect paper flowers from the elements, you can apply a sealant or spray fixative to the petals. This will help to keep them from fading in the sun or from being damaged by wind or rain. You can also store them in a plastic container or Ziploc bag to keep them safe and dry.
How do you make paper more durable?
There are a few ways to make the paper more durable. One way is to add a coat of resin or varnish to the surface of the paper. This will help to protect it from water and dirt. Another way is to strengthen the paper by adding fibres such as cotton or wool. And finally, you can also seal the edges of the paper with a clear coat of sealant, which will prevent it from being damaged by moisture or insects.
How do you make paper shiny?
You can make paper shiny by adding varnish or other sealant to it. This will add a layer of protection and make the paper more resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, it will give the paper a glossy finish that will reflect light and make it look shiny.
