Fashioning Roses With Scrapbook Paper

• Scrapbook paper
• Ruler
• Water
• Glue

Your finished flower size will depend on your paper size, so for this tutorial, I used 6x6 pieces of paper. In order to get this size I tore out several patterns from my 12x12 scrapbook pattern pack books, halved them lengthwise once, then halved them again. This provided me with four equal 6x6 squares per pattern. Rather than cut the pieces, I prefer to tear them using my craft paper tearing ruler for a more rustic look.

Once you have all of your squares prepared, tear each one in a spiral beginning about an inch from one edge and working toward the center. I like to work one flower at a time, but depending on the amount of space you have and how you like to work, you may want to tear all of your squares before moving on to the next step.

Now for the water works! I like to have my water in a shallow dish, but you might want to mist water onto your paper using a spray bottle. Either method works. In order to mold and shape the paper effectively, the bonds within it need to be broken down, and dampening it slightly assists us in accomplishing this feat. A quick mist with the spray bottle or dip in the water dish, then gentle wringing out will do it, followed by carefully spreading the paper back out.

Beginning with the center of the spiral, start to form your rose. Pinch the flower between your forefinger and thumb as you work toward the outer petals. Once your flower is complete, lay the flower on a flat surface to dry completely as you set to work on additional flowers.

Before you use your completed flowers to embellish books, mirrors, wreaths or other craft projects, glue down the petals to secure them. You may also wish to accessorize them with glitter glue, paint accents, jewels, ribbons or tinted sealant.