How to Make Artificial Flowers

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Making your own artificial flowers is a great way to create long-lasting blooms that won't cost you a fortune. You'll need coffee filters, tissue paper, or fabric to make simple ruffled flowers that will brighten any space. If you'd like to make realistic looking flowers, use colored materials and arrange the petals so they look natural. Your artificial flowers will look beautiful in a bouquet or on your next craft project!

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Shaping Coffee Filters into Flowers

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Squirt about 3 tablespoons (44 ml) of acrylic or latex paint into a large pan or bowl and stir in 1 ⁄ 2 cup (120 ml) of water until they're combined. Then, stir in 2 cups (470 ml) of water and submerge up to 20 round coffee filters of any size. Keep the filters in the dye for 2 to 3 minutes for pale flowers or up to 15 minutes for bold colored flowers. [1]
    • Keep in mind that if you use larger coffee filters, you can make bigger flowers.
    • If you're making white flowers, you can skip dying the coffee filters.

    Tip: Have fun mixing different colors of paint to create several flower colors. For example, tint pink with a little yellow to create coral colored flowers.

  2. Once the filters are the color you want, use tongs or your fingers to lift them out of the paint. Let the excess paint drip back into the pan and lay the filters on a wire rack. They'll dry faster in a single layer so don't stack the filters on the rack. [2]
    • The filters should dry within 20 or 30 minutes, depending on your climate.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Spread 1 of the dried coffee filters flat and use sharp scissors to make it into a spiral shape. The spiral strip should be about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide as you cut your way to the center of the filter. [3]
    • Once you've finished cutting the spiral, you'll be able to stretch the ends of the filter to make a long skinny strip.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Tear off a long piece of masking tape and lay it sticky side up on your work surface. Then, place the end of the filter strip about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the tape's end. [4]
    • You should use the rounded end of the filter so it will become the middle of your flower.
    • In order to make a simple stem for the flower, consider using green masking tape.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    To pleat the paper filter, just fold it over onto itself so it ribbons slightly. Press it down onto the bottom half of the tape so it gathers. Then, keep folding as you move down the tape. [5]
    • Leave space along the top of the masking tape so you'll be able to wrap and seal the stem of the flower.
    • You'll now have a ruffled strip of filter across the length of the masking tape.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Press the tip of a straw on the bottom end of the tape that doesn't have the ruffled filter. Then, wrap the tape around it and keep rolling the straw on the tape until you reach the end of the strip. This will form the ruffled filter flower. [6]
    • If you don't want to use a straw, you can use a thin strip of wire or a plastic stem from old artificial flowers.
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Cut off a long piece of green masking tape and stick it near the base of the flower. Then, wrap the tape diagonally as stick it around the entire straw. This will make the flower's stem. [7]
    • You can keep creating flowers with the other dyed filters you made.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Creating Tissue Paper Flowers

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  1. You can make the squares any size you like, but make them as wide as you'd like the flower to be. For example, you can make the squares 3 by 3 inches (7.6 cm × 7.6 cm) for a medium-sized flower. [8]
    • If you'd like to make more than 1 flower, cut 10 squares for each flower you want to create.
    • To save time, you can stack several layers of tissue when you cut the squares.

    Tip: For a fun effect, layer different colors of tissue paper to create a multicolored flower.

  2. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Ensure that the sides of the tissue paper squares are lined up before you staple them together. The layers of tissue paper will become the frilled petals of your flower. [9]
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut a circle around the stapled center of your tissue paper. Make the circle as wide as you want the flower to be. [10]
    • If you'd like to be precise, you can trace a circle before you begin cutting.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Peel up 1 layer of tissue paper at a time and scrunch it away from the staple in the middle. You can be firm as you gather each layer because this will make the ruffled texture of the petals. [11]
    • Once you've finished gathering the layers near the center, it will look like a small flower that's starting to open.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Use your thumbs to gently tug the layers of tissue paper apart. Work across the entire flower so it fills out and looks like a rounded blossom. [12]
    • You can keep the bottom layer of tissue paper flat so it's easier to attach your flower to a bouquet or project.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Making Fabric Flowers

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  1. Choose fabric in your favorite color or use several colors in different hues to make realistic looking flowers. For example, choose peach, coral, and yellow to create a vibrant colored flower. [13]
    • If you're using polyester fabric, consider working with satin, organza, acetate lining, lace, or a combination of these.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    You'll need to cut bean-shaped petals in 4 sizes for your flower. Specifically, cut 6 petals out of silk or polyester for each of these bean-shaped sizes: [14]
    • 3 by 1 3 ⁄ 4 inches (7.6 cm × 4.4 cm)
    • 3 1 ⁄ 2 by 2 inches (8.9 cm × 5.1 cm)
    • 4 1 ⁄ 2 by 2 1 ⁄ 2 inches (11.4 cm × 6.4 cm)
    • 5 1 ⁄ 4 by 3 inches (13.3 cm × 7.6 cm)

    Tip: To save time, consider making or printing a template of these sizes. Then, you can just lay them on the fabric and cut as many petals as you need.

  3. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    To create realistic looking petals, hold each petal close enough to the candle's flame so the edges curl slightly, but don't burn. Rotate the petal slowly to sear every side. If you're working with thick fabric, you'll need to hold it closer to the flame than if you're working with a delicate fabric. [15]
    • Pay attention to how close you have to put the fabric to the flame and move the fabric closer if it's taking too long.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Hold the petal horizontally and roll it tightly while you hold the bottom. This will make the center of your flower. Keep the petal in place by double threading a needle and making a few whip stitches across the bottom layers. [16]
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Put 1 more of the smallest petals around the petal that you just stitched. You should keep holding the petals tightly by the base and so your flower can begin to take shape. [17]
    • Remember to whip stitch the bottom again to secure the new petal.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Make Artificial Flowers
    Once you've attached all of the smallest petals, start adding the next smallest size until you've added all of them to the flower. Keep adding the petals so you use the largest petals for the outside of the flower. [18]
    • You should continue to whip stitch the base of each petal so your flower doesn't unravel.

    Tip: To make a realistic flower, overlap the petals as you place them. This will cover the seams and make the petals appear more natural.

  7. Tie a knot at the base of your flower and trim the thread. Then, use your fingers to gently pull back the petals at the top of your flower to make them look like they're blossoming.
    • You can now attach the flowers to stems for a bouquet or hot glue them onto bows or wreaths.
    EXPERT TIP

    Jeanne Walker

    Florist
    Jeanne Walker is a Florist and the Owner of Fringe Flower Company, a floral design shop that specializes in weddings, special events, and daily deliveries. Fringe Flower Company, based in Walnut Creek, California, provides customized hand-tied and vase bouquets along with potted plants, succulent gardens, tulip french buckets, and wreaths. Jeanne also conducts floral design workshops and parties throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
    Jeanne Walker
    Florist

    Did You Know? Artificial flowers are great for using on floral crowns. Your head emanates heat, so if you use real flowers, they can droop quickly. Artificial flowers will hold up much better, and they'll still photograph beautifully.

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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    What can I make artificial flowers from?
    T. Chinsen
    Top Answerer
    Artificial flowers can be made from anything. The key is to decide how realistic the final product will be, then choose the appropriate material. The level of execution determines the quality of the outcome.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 9 Helpful 11
  • Question
    Do I need florist's tape, or can I use a different tape?
    Community Answer
    You could use regular tape, but it won't work as well as florist's tape. Florist's tape is easier to work with and fits in better with the flower because it's typically green. They sell florist's tape at the Dollar Tree.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 4 Helpful 12
  • Question
    Can I use normal paper instead of tissue paper when making artificial flowers?
    Community Answer
    You can, it just won't be as flexible when you fold it. I'd recommend not adding stems, as that will put more weight on your flowers.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 12
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      Things You'll Need

      Shaping Coffee Filters into Flowers

      • Scissors
      • Coffee filters
      • Large pan or bowl
      • Spoon
      • Acrylic or latex craft paint
      • Plastic fork
      • Drinking straws
      • Masking tape
      • Straw
      • Wire rack
      • Tongs, optional

      Creating Tissue Paper Flowers

      • Scissors
      • Tissue paper
      • Stapler
      • Needle and thread

      Making Fabric Flowers

      • Scissors
      • Candle
      • Needle and thread
      • Silk or polyester fabric

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.designdazzle.com/diy-coffee-filter-flowers/
      2. ↑ https://www.designdazzle.com/diy-coffee-filter-flowers/
      3. ↑ http://www.auntpeaches.com/2010/09/coffee-filter-roses.html#more
      4. ↑ http://www.auntpeaches.com/2010/09/coffee-filter-roses.html#more
      5. ↑ http://www.auntpeaches.com/2010/09/coffee-filter-roses.html#more
      6. ↑ http://www.auntpeaches.com/2010/09/coffee-filter-roses.html#more
      7. ↑ http://www.auntpeaches.com/2010/09/coffee-filter-roses.html#more
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/SejtYvy7TGY?t=6
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/SejtYvy7TGY?t=21
      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/SejtYvy7TGY?t=39
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/SejtYvy7TGY?t=77
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/SejtYvy7TGY?t=92
      4. ↑ https://thediymommy.com/sew-fabric-peonies-and-cabbage-roses/
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/hlSN6VSaceA?t=122
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/hlSN6VSaceA?t=286
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/hlSN6VSaceA?t=450
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/hlSN6VSaceA?t=450
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/hlSN6VSaceA?t=560

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To make flowers out of coffee filters, soak coffee filters in dye made from acrylic paint and water. For vivid colors, soak the filters for up to 15 minutes, or for 2 to 3 minutes for subtler hues. After soaking the filters, lay them in a single layer on a wire rack to dry. When they’re dry, take one and cut it into a spiral strip about 1 inch wide. Then, cut a 12-inch strip of green masking tape and pleat the filter across the bottom half of the strip, starting with the center of the spiral. Stick the end of a drinking straw to one end of the tape and wrap the tape and paper around the top of the straw to form a blossom. Finish by wrapping green tape around the straw to make a stem. Scroll down for tips on how to make flowers from tissue paper!

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        Jun 16, 2018

        "The thought that everything used in the making of the flowers was easily available helped. "
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