How to Make Tissue Paper Flowers

Make Accordion Folds

Fold each sheet of tissue paper in half the long way. Make accordion folds of about an inch wide on each sheet until you're left with a stack of folds.

Cut the Middle Down to Size

Each tissue paper color will take on a different shape and size.

1. Start with the color you'll use as the center of the flower.
2. Cut down the accordion folded strip by half or a little more so that it's the shortest of the three colors.
3. Cut tiny strips into the top of the tissue paper only on one side, almost like you are making fringe.

Cut Down Petals

Move on to the petals, which also have accordion folds.

1. Cut down the middle petals, but make them a little longer than the center sheet that you just cut down.
2. Keep the outer petals a little longer than the middle sheet of petals you just cut down. (You may not need to cut the outer petals down.)
3. As you cut the middle and outer sheets of petals down to size, round one end of the accordion folded edges using your scissors.

Layer the Cut Tissue Paper

1. Unfold all of the sheets of tissue paper and layer them one on top of the other. (The center color should be on top of the layer.)
2. Accordion fold the entire layer of tissue pieces so you end up with one long, thin section when you're done.

Twist the Wire Around the Middle

1. Fold the entire accordion folded and layered stack of tissue paper in half.
2. Secure it using a piece of floral wire.
3. Twist the wire until it's tight all the way to the end. Now you have the center of the flower.
4. Cut away any excess wire. (If you have any excess wire, why not make afloral crown?)

Arrange the Petals

You may be a little concerned that your flower is not looking very floral, but don't worry, you're not done yet!

1. Start by spreading out the outer petals.
2. Spread the middle petals by shaping and rounding the tissue paper with your fingers.
3. Gently separate the fragile fringe on the center of the flowers to form the middle.