Let’s Craft Giant Paper Dahlias

Instructions

1. Create the base. To make the base, glue the circle template on a piece of cardboard and cut out a little larger than the template. If you want to hang the dahlia, make a small slit near the top of the circle and insert a piece of ribbon.
2. Cut the paper squares. Using a metal ruler and a blade knife, cut all but the pink paper sheets into 10 cm x 10 cm (4 in x 4 in) squares. To speed this process up, cut multiple sheets at the same time. Cut the pink paper into 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm (3 in x 3 in) squares. You need approximately 20 dark red squares, 20 medium red squares, 16 light red squares and 16 pink squares, but it’s better to have a little extra.
   Tip: Work on a self-healing cutting mat to protect your work surface.
3. Form the petals. To make the petals, preheat the glue gun. Then roll the paper squares into cones and secure them with hot glue. The glue is very hot so be extra careful not burn yourself and kids, please let a parent help you with this project!
4. Build the flower. Flatten and fold the base of each cone, add a small dot of glue and fix it onto the cardboard template. Use the dark red cones and start on the outside of the circle, leaving a small gap between the petals. The next row of cones should go in between the first so that the petals overlap and create a layered effect. Continue this process with the other colors, going from dark to light, and use the template as a guide to create a perfect circular shape.
5. Make the flower center. Glue a 5 cm (2 in) circle of dark red paper into the center of the flower. Then roll small strips of dark red paper into tubes and glue them into the center until it’s completely filled. The contrast between the dark center and the pink petals lets the colors pop and brings the flower to life.
   Tip: To remove those pesky glue strings blow over the flower with a hair dryer until the strings disappear.