How to Make Tissue Flowers for Cinco De Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican celebration of the Mexican peoples' liberation. It is often confused with the Mexican independence day which is not actually celebrated until September. Cinco de Mayo celebrates a single victory at the Battle of Puebla. One decoration used in many Cinco de Mayo celebrations is tissue paper flowers of all sizes, usually made in bold colors. Tissue paper flowers are an easy decoration to make for Cinco de Mayo and are a great way to get kids involved in celebrating the holiday as a classroom or party activity.

Things You'll Need

• Tissue paper (brightly colored)
• Green pipe cleaner
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Place eight to 10 sheets of tissue paper in the same color on top of each other. You can use full sheets of tissue paper to make large flowers, or cut smaller rectangles for small flowers.

2. Fold the tissue paper in an accordion shape. To do this, you'll fold one edge, 1 inch, inwards, turn the paper over and fold another inch inwards.

3. Continue flipping and folding until the tissue paper is a tightly folded rectangle strip. If you let one end of the tissue paper fan out, it should look like an accordion fan.

4. Twist the green pipe cleaner over the center of the folded strip and twist it all together to secure. You may want to add a second pipe cleaner to the bottom of the first one to make a longer stem.

5. Cut each end of the strip to make a curved or pointed edge. This will add variety to the end of the petals. If you feel ambitious, you can try cutting a jagged or scalloped edge.

6. Peel each layer of tissue paper apart from each other to spread out the petals. Once you've peeled each layer, adjust the flower until it looks the way you want.

7. Continue making flowers until you have enough for a bouquet, centerpiece or other decorations.

Tips & Warnings

• Use different colors of tissue paper in a single flower to create a bright layered effect.

• If kids are making the flowers, remind them to be careful when pulling apart the tissue paper layers, as they tear easily.

References

• “Fanciful Paper Flowers: Creative Techniques for Crafting an Enchanted Garden”; Sandra Evertson; 2007
• “Paper Flowers (Make Your Own)”; Editors of Chicken Socks; 2007
• “Fabulous Flowers: Create Pretty Paper Blossoms (Klutz)”; Anne Akers-Johnson; 2011
• “Cinco de Mayo: Celebrating the Traditions of Mexico”; Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith et al; 2010