How to Make Nylon Chiffon Flowers for the Hair

Chiffon comes in a wide variety of colors, so experiment with layering.

Fascinators, or large decorative hair ornaments, are back in style. Originally popular in the 1920s, they are often comprised of flowers accented with feathers, crystals, or vintage jewelry. Fascinators can be worn alone, clipped to a headband or applied to a wedding veil. They also work well pinned to dresses, sweaters, and t-shirts for a feminine touch. Nylon chiffon flowers make a great base for a fascinator and can be made in an afternoon.

Things You'll Need

• Nylon chiffon
• Scissors
• Candle
• Large bowl of water
• Kitchen tongs
• Thread
• Needle
• Craft epoxy (optional)
• Decorative vintage pins, pearls or crystals (optional)
• Hair clips

Instructions

1. Cut the nylon chiffon into at least three circles. The largest should be the diameter of the finished flower, and the others should be progressively smaller. Do not worry about making the circles perfect, since the flowers look more natural with slight asymmetry.

2. Light the candle and move the filled bowl of water into your work space. Pick up the smallest circle with kitchen tongs and carefully hold it so that the edge is about 2 inches over the flame. The heat will melt and warp the edge of the fabric, forming a petal-like edge.

3. Repeat the steps to melt the edges of the other layers. Varying the colors of alternate layers will add to the realistic quality of the flower. Stack the layers, centering them one on top of the other, from largest to smallest. Sew or epoxy the layers together at the center. Add a vintage pin, pearls or crystals to the center for extra sparkle, if desired. Sew or glue the finished flower to a hair clip or head band.

Tips & Warnings

• Use very sharp scissors when cutting chiffon to avoid snags.

• Always be cautious with an open flame.Blow out the candle if you leave the room.

References

• Cut out and Keep: How to Make Chiffon Flowers

Resources

• Grosgrain Fabulous: Embellish Knit Month Day 30