How to Make Easy Paper Sunflowers

Paper artist Lynne Farris demonstrates how to twist a paper yarn product to create paper sunflowers. This project requires no special tools, no glue and the flowers last for years without fading. Cluster several together in a basket for a stunning centerpiece, or tuck a single blossom into a bookshelf or on a mantel to add a touch of color.

Materials and Tools:

3 rubber bands
TwistArt Spools twisted paper yarn:
 - 32 six-inch pieces of 4-ply yellow-brown
 - 16 three-inch pieces of 4-ply black
 - 16 three-inch pieces of 4-ply brown
 - 1 six-yard piece of single ply brown

Note: To create a large paper sunflower, cut 128 petals from the 6-inch pieces of yellow-brown paper yarn.

Steps:

1. Mix the black and brown three-inch strands together. Tap on one end and then the other to create a neat column.

2. Wrap a rubber band around several times near the bottom and the top edges to hold the column together snugly. This will form the center of the flower.

3. Separate the six-inch strands.

4. Open out the strands about three inches from one end, leaving both ends twisted to simulate the shape of a petal. Set aside. Tip: Spraying the strands with water helps the petals to open up a bit easier.

5. To form the flower: Arrange the flower petals around the center neatly and evenly, about five petals at a time, and insert under the lower rubber band to secure.

6. To wrap the sunflower base: Tie several single strands of paper yarn around the base, or tie one, long single strand of paper yarn around the base.