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During the early 1900s, the art of crepe paper flower making became popular as a replacement for real flowers. Female members of the family would gather together and construct flowers for decoration on graves for Memorial Day. Plastic flowers were unheard of at that time and fresh flowers weren't always available or couldn't withstand the weather. These flowers looked real and lasted a long time, often much longer than real flowers would have.
Memorial Day bouquets would be made months ahead of time and gathered for delivery to the graves, which were often far from where the family lived. While it was a family pastime, quite often the women from several families would gather together to make the flowers. The flowers were often dipped in paraffin wax to make them last even longer than they ordinarily would by offering a temporary protective coat, thus protecting them from dirt, dust and rain.
Wreaths would also be constructed using the crepe paper flowers. Sweet peas would be laid on infant graves, with larger flowers set on the graves of grandparents.
Supplies were hard to find then, and Dennison crepe paper was the favored brand because it had the ability to stretch. Screen wire was used for small flowers such as sweet peas while bailing wire or copper wire was used for larger, more substantial flowers. Flowers such as roses, rose buds, sweet peas and morning glories were popular then. - Crepe paper flowers are ideal for home decor or decorative projects. During the winter months when there are few flowers growing, crepe paper flowers will brighten any room. Use these flowers to decorate homes, baskets and wreaths, and for gift giving. There are many web sites available with free downloadable patterns. Author Martha Stewart features paper flowers on her craft web site.
- The art of making the flowers also increases hand-eye coordination and dexterity, which is especially good for children and senior citizens. As a therapeutic means of creativity, this art form is a perfect stress reliever. Embellish gift packages with these flowers instead of using ribbons.
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Crepe paper that has stretch and is of good quality is the best to purchase. It isn't expensive and can be bought at most craft or party stores. The colors are exceptional and a wide variety is available. Some crepe paper flower kits are available for purchase. They include all the necessary materials.
For a simple flower, it will take a 2-foot-long strip of green crepe paper for the stem and at least five 4-by-4-inch pieces of colored paper for the petals. A thin stick or dowel can be used for the stem. A small cotton ball or piece of tissue rolled into a ball can be covered with yellow crepe paper for the flower center. Wrap the ball into the yellow crepe paper and twist the end to form a tail. Tape the twisted tail end of the ball to the top of the dowel.
Lay the five pieces of colored crepe paper on top of one another in a stack and fold them in half. Cut a petal shape out of the folded crepe paper. Stretch out a piece of tape and place the five petals onto it, overlapping the petals a little bit. Tape the strip of petals around the dowel just under the ball.
Use the green crepe paper to wrap the flower, beginning at the base of the petals and rolling the dowel on an angle so the paper will furl downward. Tape in place and then pull the petals outward a bit so it looks completely open. - Crepe paper flower projects are not recommended for children under the age of 5. Parental guidance is always recommended when children use scissors, wire or glue of any type.
- Completing this type of project can give you a great sense of accomplishment. The flowers are not only a wonderful addition, but the assembly process is also educational.
