How-To Tuesday: Folded Accordion Flowers

If you have visited my Etsy shop (DeLorenzo Art) then you have surely noticed that I love folded, paper flowers!  I love to make them out of any patterned paper, maps, book print, or any kind of paper you can fold.  Mixing and matching papers for an unique bouquet is rewarding and fun-try it!

This is how I make the little masterpieces:

Step 1: Select any kind of paper you can fold into a small accordion.  Cut each sheet of paper into strips 1/2" to 1" wide.

Step 2:  Begin at one end of the strip and fold the paper, accordion style, with 1/4" to 1/2" pleats. 

Step 3:  Secure one end of your folded strip with the other end to create a continuous loop.  The pattern should match up; in other words, make sure your folded strip is not twisted when you secure the ends. 

Step 4:  Now comes the tricky part which takes a little bit of practice and patience.  Fold one side of your loop inward, and push the loop inward, on a flat surface to create a round, folded flower.

Step 5:  Secure the folded flower in the middle of the piece (glue or a hot glue gun works best) and hold until the glue sets.  This part can be a little frustrating because the folds want to force the flower to pop back into a loop; you can do it!

Step 6: Hold the flower's shape until the glue is set and Voila!



DeLorenzo Art-My Etsy Shop!

Introducing....DeLorenzo Art

Handcrafted cards, paintings, and more for any occasion or decorating whim. From Christmas cards to blank notes, this shop features a variety of paper crafts for someone looking for handmade goods. Original floral inspired artworks are produced in acrylic medium in a variety of sizes. This shop also features a range of other crafts and finds for the casual decorator or sentiment sender. Works are produced in Evansville, Indiana. I can personalize or custom make almost anything in this shop if what you are looking for is not quite here.

 

Paper Crafts: I have a selection of blank greeting cards for special occasions, "thank yous," and more.  Some cards are made with a variety of paper patterns while others are hand pained or inked.  There is also a variety of Christmas cards and holiday gift wrapping.  Also in this shop section are a selection of folded flower art pieces.  These framed folded flower pieces are perfect for a desk, bedside table, or any room of the house for a little extra decorating accent.

 

Paintings:  I love painting with acrylics!  In this shop section are some of my paintings inspired by nature, flowers, and cool colors.  These paintings are sure to brighten any bland wall or empty space.

 

Photographs:  The prints in this section are from a variety of places from my travels to London, France, Germany, and Switzerland.  These prints are available in a wide variety of sizes and can be shipped fairly quickly.

 

Here are some of my favorite items in my shop:

 

 

Please feel free to take a look around, tag some items as favorites, or create a treasury using some of these items.  As always, I welcome feedback and look forward to improving my store with your help and suggestions.