What I've Learned About Crepe Paper: What I Wish I Knew When I Started
Learning the Art of Crepe Paper Flowers
When I first started exploring crepe paper flowers, I never imagined how much depth and joy this craft would bring. What began as simple curiosity - just wanting to make a single paper poppy - quickly turned into hours of experimenting, painting, shaping, and discovering the endless possibilities hidden in a roll of paper.
Crepe paper has a unique magic to it. It stretches and folds almost like real petals. Depending on the type and weight, it can be delicate and airy or firm and sculptural. I've learned that each paper behaves differently: heavier crepe adds structure, while lighter, fine crepe allows for softer, more realistic-looking petals.
Learning From the Best
Like most makers, I began by following tutorials and books from talented paper flower artists around the world - The Fine Art of Paper Flowers by Tiffanie Turner and Paper Flower Art: Create Beautifully Realistic Floral Arrangements by Jessie Chui. Both are wonderful guides if you're just getting started in paper floristry.
Through these resources (and a fair bit of trial and error!), I've started developing my own style and preferences.
If you're looking for high-quality crepe paper in New Zealand, there are two main types to consider: German and Italian. I mainly use Italian crepe paper from Cartotecnica Rossi - it's affordable, accessible here in NZ, and lovely to work with.
My stash of Italian Cartotencnica Rossi crepe paper in 90g and 180g
What I've Learned So Far
Try different crepe paper weights. Early on, I was convinced that 180 g was the best option. But after experimenting with 90 g crepe, I found I prefer it - it's softer, lighter, and gives a more natural look. (Though I still have plenty of 180 g rolls tucked away and still use them for larger petals and leaves)
Patience is key. Each flower can take hours to make, but every petal feels worth it.
Paint changes everything. Adding soft washes of colour brings life and realism that plain paper can't. Crepe paper can fade, so I'll share more about colour preservation in a future post. If you're just starting and don't want to buy a whole stash of crepe paper, try working with white or cream crepe - you can always paint it..
Start small. Every bloom you make teaches you something new - about the paper, the colours, and yourself.
. 
Italian crepe paper in 90g and 180g. You can see how the grains are softer in 90g (bottom) and the 80g (top) is thicker.
Why I love Making Paper Flowers
There's something grounding about slowing down and making something by hand. Crepe paper flowers don't wilt; they quietly reward time and care. Every bloom feels like a celebration of nature that lasts forever.
If you've ever wanted to try your hand at paper flower making, I'd say: just start. Grab a roll of crepe paper, a bit of glue, and see where it takes you.
Whether you're in Auckland, Wellington, or anywhere in Aotearoa, I hope this inspires you to explore the world of handcrafted paper flowers in NZ - a craft that blends patience, artistry, and the simple joy of creating something beautiful.