Paper Flower for Gifts

 

When you run out of gift wrapping paper, save money and use your creativity to awe your friends and family. This is such a simple technique that uses only construction paper, hemp, and a medium-sized brown paper bag. Once you try this thoughtful idea, you'll always look forward to gift-giving all throughout the year.

 

Materials:

•   Brown paper bag (any size depending on gift)
•   2 colored constructions paper
•   1 inch circular object (i.e water bottle cap)
•   Hemp
•   Pencil, scissor, glue

How to Make it:

1. To make the flower petals, trace 8 circles using a water bottle cap and cut them out. Pinch the end of one circle together with glue. Repeat with one more circle. Place each one on top of the other for a double petal. Cut the end off of the third petal to fit on top of the second petal and glue it together.  Hold in place until glue sets.
2. For the other side of the flower, use one circle to make the base of the flower. Glue it over the first petal. Continue Step 1. 
3. Fold the last two circles in half and glue one over the other. Cut the ends off to make a pointed triangle shape and glue it to the center of the flower.
4. To make the leaf, trace 1 circle on a green construction paper using a water bottle cap. Fold in half and glue one side on the gift wrapping paper.

DIY Paper Latern

I once made this cute paper latern for my Hawaiian themed 18th birthday party. I couldn't believe how easy they were to make and appear so festive. These decorative paper laterns can be embellished to suit any occasion.

Here's What You'll Need:

• One 8.5" x 11" piece of paper (construction paper, bond paper, or even cardstock.)  
• Scissors 
• Tape or Stapler
• Ruler 
• Pencil 
• Hole puncher
• String or Ribbon 

 

How To Make It: 

1. Fold paper in half lengthwise. Cut slices about an inch in width and making sure to stop about 1″ from the edge. 
2. To assemble the latern, unfold the paper and  roll it into a tube shape. Match the long edges together on the lantern and use tape to hold it in place. 
3. Hole-punch on the top of each side of the latern. Loop a string through both holes and knot the ends together.
4. If you plan on having the lanterns on the ground or sitting on flat surface outdoors, it is recommended to wrap and glue your latern around a tall glass vase that holds the candle since the paper you're using can be a little flimsy.