How to Make Burlap Flowers

Looking for a way to make an unconventional floral arrangement? Designing flowers from burlap material (hessian) can add interest and texture to not only an arrangement, you can use these flowers for clothing, accessories or to decorate.

Gather Supplies

1. Consider how you will use the burlap flowers. Are you simply accenting a handbag or creating an entire bouquet; your project will dictate how much burlap you will need and supporting supplies.
   • Make sure the burlap style is coordinated with its surroundings. You may want to reconsider placing a burlap flower on a silk blouse so hold the material up to the chosen piece of burlap to ensure the two are complimentary and don’t clash.
     
     
   • Assess flower size. Sometimes bigger isn’t always better so make sure you are sizing your flowers appropriately for your project.
     
     
2. Purchase burlap material at a local craft or fabric store. In some cases you can purchase burlap in a variety of patterns too so choose wisely.
   
   
3. Find sharp sewing scissors, a hot glue gun and a felt circle (the same color as your burlap). The felt circle will be used as the flower backing so make sure the circle size will support the flower you are about to create.

Create the Flowers

1. Cut burlap strips. For an average sized flower you’ll need a burlap strip that is 1.5” x 15” (however this size will vary based on your project parameters).
   • Measure where you will cut. Make a small cut and then pull one strand of the burlap out on one side. Pulling a strand from the burlap will create a straight line for cutting.
     
     
   • Cut along the designated line using your sharp sewing scissors to create your strip.
     
     
2. Fold burlap strip in half on one end and begin rolling it inward. This will create the center of your burlap flower.
   
   
   • Roll several times so you have approximately two or three center layers.
     
     
3. Twist burlap away from the center and continue to roll in order to create the flower petals.
   
   
   • No longer fold the strip once you begin to work on the petal portion of the flower.
     
     
4. Hold the burlap flower by the base and continue to twist and turn, creating the petals and flower.
   
   
5. Apply hot glue to the end of the burlap and twist underneath the flower. Hold in place for several minutes or until dried so your flower doesn’t unravel once you start working on the base.
   
   
6. Glue the felt center base behind the flower using hot glue and hold in place. Add more glue along the sides and bottom to ensure the flower is fully contained and set.
   
   
7. Finished!
   
   

• Slightly dampen the burlap before cutting to avoid leaving dust and debris. Use an empty spray bottle filled with water to dampen the burlap.
• Iron burlap before creating the flower for a crisper rose. Set iron at medium-hot heat and/or lightly mist material before ironing.
• Remove burlap smell by lightly misting with body spray or perfume.