- Historians have always been at odds over which culture was the first to invent paper flowers. Some believe it was the ancient Egyptians because of their early use of papyrus, but others stand behind the theory that the Chinese were the first to utilize paper for the purposes of making artificial flowers. These early paper flowers were often used in ceremonial and religious rituals. During the Victorian Era, paper flowers were a common adornment in homes. Paper flower making was a favorite past time of Victorian women who created elaborate bouquets to decorate their homes.
- Paper flower bouquets consist of carefully arranged flower replicas made of paper, attached to a thin gauged wire, with attached leaves. The stems are often wrapped with commercial floral tape for a realistic look, with the addition of paper leaves that are sometimes dipped in wax to give a dew-kissed appearance. The flowers can then be bound together and wrapped in cellophane for a loose bouquet, or placed in a vase for decorative purposes.
- The paper flowers used in bouquets can be made of a variety of decorative papers, but most commonly, paper flowers are made of tissue or crepe paper. Flower-making techniques range from simplistic to elaborate, making for a suitable hobby that can accommodate all skill levels and age groups.
- Paper flowers are fantastic for weddings or any other occasion that warrants a lasting and tangible memory. Paper flower bouquets are also perfect for those who prefer the look of floral accents, but are not interested in maintaining live flowers. Paper flower bouquets will never wilt, and do not need any maintenance aside from a light dusting from time to time.
- Fake flowers have long been considered a decorating faux pas. But paper flowers designs have come a long way, and the tissue and crepe papers available for creating them are being manufactured with additional textures and wax coatings that help to create the illusion of a living flowers. Paper flower bouquets can even be given a light misting of floral fragrance to boost the effect.
