Fabrics are fantastic. I’m a fan, if not a fanatic. I’m not an expert in textiles, but the beautiful thing about today’s trick is a sewing novice can fabricate flowers. All you need is an imagination and a few tools.

When you start working with different fabric textures and types, you soon discover how shifty and slippery they can be. In this tutorial, I am going to teach you a fool-proof way to have fun with your scraps. I used an old bridesmaid dress that was altered.

You’ll want to grab:

A needle and thread

Scraps of fabric or ribbon (I used polyester)

Scissors

A button or bead (optional)

Make Imperfect Cuts

Decide the shape and size of leaf or petal you want to make, and start cutting. It doesn’t have to be perfect! I follow this rule of thumb with my fabric flowers: plan a design and don’t sweat the little shifts. It’s all part of the art! You can fold the fabric in half to create a more symmetrical shape if you want.

Fold for Textures

The fun thing about working with fabric is you literally can build textures into the piece. When you hold a shape in your hand, it looks flat and lifeless. Give it a fold or two, and suddenly a leaf emerges. Isn’t that amazing?

Layer for Depth

No flower has one petal. Add depth and whimsy to your flowers by giving them at least three layers. I gave mine three and plan to do four for my next flower. You’ll be able to gauge what’s best by playing around with your pieces.

Add the Center

The center of your flower can be a contrasting or coordinating color. You can use a bead, a button, or even create an X with the thread by repeatedly sewing through the center. You’ll want to make at least four stitches to secure it. After tying a knot in the back, your flower is complete.

Unless…

Beauty after Burning

Some fabrics (like polyester) actually melt when you draw a flame close to them. This seals the frayed edges and creates that ridged effect. Detailing your fabric flowers this way adds pizazz to your fantastic fabric garden.

Thank you for journeying through the fabric fields with me today. Happy flower-making, and happy spring! I’m so glad all inventions aren’t made of steel and fiberglass. Some just make me smile. If you liked this adventure, check out watercolor art for more artistic fun.

Until next time,

Invent your story