This DIY paper dahlia project is simple, charming, and perfect for upcycling old books or newspapers. Using basic supplies—cardboard, book or newspaper pages, glue, scissors, and a pencil—you can craft a stunning flower that works as home decor, a unique gift topper, or part of wall art.
This craft not only makes a beautiful handmade piece, it’s also an eco-friendly way to repurpose paper. It’s great for a relaxed weekend project, a creative activity with kids (with supervision for cutting), or a quick decor update.
Follow the steps below to make your own paper dahlia.
Supplies
- Cardboard (for the base)
- Glue (craft glue or hot glue)
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Old book pages or newspaper sheets
Paper Dahlia Flowers Step-By-Step Video
A full video demonstration is provided below to guide you through the process. Written step-by-step instructions follow for quick reference.
Subscribe to the creator’s channel for more craft videos.
Instructions
Step 1: Cut a circle from sturdy cardboard about 20 centimeters in diameter. This will be the base for your dahlia.
Step 2: Remove pages from an old book or tear sheets from a newspaper. Cut these into roughly 8 x 8 centimeter squares to form your petals.
Step 3: Roll each square into a small cone and secure the edge with a touch of glue. These cones will become the layered petals of the dahlia.
Step 4: Begin attaching the cones to the cardboard base, working from the outer edge inward. Place each cone with a small gap—about 1.5 centimeters—then overlap in subsequent rows so the base is fully covered and the petals appear even and full.
Continue layering cones in concentric circles, making sure to fill any visible gaps with the next row. This overlapping technique creates a realistic, textured look.
Step 5: As you approach the center, switch to smaller squares (about 6.5 x 6.5 centimeters) and roll tighter cones to close the circle neatly. For the very center, you can make even smaller cones for a compact finish.
Once the last cones are glued in place, allow the piece to dry completely. The result is a delicate, paper dahlia with layered texture and vintage charm—perfect for hanging, framing, or displaying on a shelf.
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