Never Say Die

Anyone who happened to read the labels on my last post may have noticed the words "crafts" and "wedding." Because, in fact, the rose pictured was made from crepe paper, and will be used in exactly 5 months and 3 days (not that anyone's counting... *ahem*).



I discovered the art of making crepe paper flowers about a year or two ago, though I don't remember how I stumbled across it! Once the discovery was made, I was wild to try it for myself. The only problem is that crepe paper flowers went out of style several decades ago, leaving very few resources for those who want to save this lost art. (By the way, Martha Stewart has produced several crepe paper flower kits, which are great if you don't want to invest in large amounts of materials)

Fortunately I found a vintage 1930's book:



(complete with cover artwork, in which the lady pictured is using *the same book*, with her own photo on the cover:)



...a website that supplies crepe paper in a rainbow of colors:

D. Blumchen and Co.

(Check out their website for pages of delightful vintageness, from actual vintage flower-making supplies like stamens and leaves, to all sorts of trims, scrap pictures, and holiday decorations! I love this site!)

...and plenty of floral supplies from local craft shops:



The cost is unbelievably low -- a package of crepe paper measures 20 inches by 7 feet, for $1.35. Floral tape and wire is ridiculously cheap, and there are only a few other supplies needed (scissors, spray adhesive, glue stick, etc.). I plan to use flowers only for the bride's and bridesmaids' bouquets, which will keep the total cost well under $30 for four bouquets. I'm loving that.

But far more exciting than the cost is the pleasure of creating a flower from paper. Crepe paper is similar to tissue paper, but it has been "creped," giving it a flower-like texture. The biggest difference, however, is that crepe paper -- Oh, joy! -- stretches. This allows for cupped rose petals, fluted edges, and all sorts of crepe-y fun. It takes a bit of practice, but oh, is it worth it! Best of all, I can finish the flowers ahead of time, and not have to worry about fresh flowers close to the wedding. Plus, they last (practically) forever!

And ever since I found out that Martha Stewart carried crepe paper flowers at her wedding, I've felt a bit more confident. If Martha can do it, then so can I! *smile*