Rebecca Thuss - Paper to petal: 75 whimsical paper flowers to craft by hand

History

Paper crafts and paper flowers have been a longtime tradition in many countries, including Mexico, Korea, Japan, and China. The variety of paper-art techniques developed over the centuriesorigami and kirigami in Japan and hanji/mulberry paper flower crafts in Koreais simply amazing. Often paper flowers were used as decorations in ceremonial events and celebrations, and as a social grouporiented folkcraft. Paper-flower crafting was also popular in the Victorian era and in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s, and then again during the mid-twentieth century. Flowers were created and used during times of the year when fresh flowers werent obtainable. When crepe paper became even more readily available, the range of instruction booklets expanded. These now vintage booklets are wonderful sources of inspiration.

There is an intangible element in the handmade; an aspect of individuality that cant be duplicated. Its why my husband, Patrick, and I have crafted things by hand our entire lives. We have always been drawn to the beauty, charm, and personality of handmade items.

Paper flowers embody the best of these traits. Like real flowers, they are substantial yet delicate; impermanent yet artful. I have always loved vintage paper ephemera and adore the patina of aged paper. While in art school I began amassing what is now a large collection of vintage crepe paper, paper flowers, party nut cups, and old paper-flower instruction booklets. Over time Ive become ever more inspired by the art of making paper flowers and the history of this craft. I find myself continually making them to adorn packages and give them as gifts, for photography sets and projects, party and holiday decorations, and to simply enjoy at home. I learned basic skills from my vintage books and then developed my own techniques through years of experimentation. During my ten years as a style director at Martha Stewart Weddings magazine I had the opportunity to craft many paper-flower projects that were featured in editorial stories.

Most vintage paper-flower instruction books are rooted in creating forms found in nature. Real flowers provide an endless source of inspiration. The shapes, colors, textures, and variety are incredible and exciting to use as a starting point for paper crafts. Nature has perfected imperfection, and the same principle can be applied to paper flowers. No need to strive for perfection; each hand that makes a flower will introduce lovely differences that are beautiful. I love using nature as a reference, but I also enjoy creating whimsical flowers not found in the natural world. When designing flowers, Patrick and I can get inspired by pretty much anything, allow our imaginations to run wild, and create something unique, fanciful, and most important, fun to make.