How to Make Flax Roses

Flax is a long-stemmed plant that grows about 3 feet high. It's been grown around the world for more than 30 centuries. It is a highly versatile plant that has many uses, one of which is turning the plant into rose buds for a variety of decorations. It is quite easy to do and the roses can be painted any color to make them more lifelike.

Things You'll Need

• A piece of flax

Instructions

1. Use a long piece of flax that is about one inch wide and pliable. Starting at about the middle of the piece, fold the flax at a 45 degree angle and pinch it. Then take the other end and fold it at the same angle, then pinch it shut.

2. Alternate the two ends of the flax, and fold them the same way until you reach about four inches from the ends. Then hold each end of the flax with your fingers and release the folds, which will automatically extend to about 10 inches in length.

3. With one hand at the base of the folds, grab one of the ends of the flax with your other hand and pull it. If it doesn't give, grab the other end and gently pull it until the folds compress and a rosebud begins to form.

4. Use your fingernail on the end that you pulled up to create strands of flax and secure the rosebud by wrapping the strands around the base of the rosebud.

5. Make at least a dozen of these to make a bouquet. Add some dried foliage to the rosebuds, and you'll have a lasting memento of your efforts.

References

• Vimeo: How to make a flax miniature rose bud