Miniature versions of water lilies made from paper

Welcome to the video!

This mixed media DIY project is part of a miniature Wildflower Series, Episode 16 making 1:12 scale Nymphaea water lilies using copy paper & floral wire. Ideas to display the flowers & other accessories like goldfish, koi & minnows are shown too.

No clay or resin used in this project but this could be an option.

This water lily flower project measures approximately - 1/2” diameter & 1/4” height in three colors & designed to sit onto a water top. If adding the underwater floral wire stem, it will be longer as also shown in video.

Each plant took about five to fifteen minutes or so to make. Adult assistance is needed for younger persons.

Inspiration ideas from artist Claude Monet & his water lily painting collection.

Water lilies grow in ponds & similar water sources. There are many different kinds. Most have thick & waxy flowers.

Lotus flowers are similar in appearance but from a different biological family, usually have thin & papery flowers & may grow taller.

Suggested materials & supplies list:
[1] copy paper or multipurpose paper - white, light pink, light yellow, bright yellow & white paper, acrylic painted leaf green for lily pads, leaves & buds - I painted the green on both sides of the paper.
[2] paper punches - (6 small total): 5/8” six petal floral; 5/8” eight daisy petal floral; 5/8” circle; 5/16” eight daisy petal floral; 5/16” circle; 1/4” sunburst (these are approximations)
wrapped floral wire - for stems, 24 gauge
[3] color pencils - orange, magenta, green, brown or dark purple
[4] glue - PVA clear drying or similar
[5] sealer - matte
[6] toothpicks
[7] scissors & wire cutter
[8] tweezers
[9] small clamps or clothespins
[10] sewing pins
[11] ruler
[12] stylus & foam piece
[13] craft knife & mat
[14] acrylic paint - greens, blues, white, grey …
[15] paintbrushes
[16] paper towel
[17] containers - like plastic lids to hold paint & glue & pieces
Other additional options: paper cup 8 ounce for lily water garden container or similar cap; clear plastic or acetate for water top; opaque paper for fish; glass paint; thin fiber optic strand or small clear pony beads; small ceramic decorative bridge or ponds; blue-green marble design; craft foam; permanent markers; transparent vellum/ opaque paper; card stock or paper for pond/stream water look; crewel yarn & sewing thread to make rhizomes/rootstalks; add bees or butterflies see my Mini Beekeeper Hive & Mini Stargazer Flower videos.

Notes:
*most supplies & materials available online or at your local arts and crafts stores
*sizes are close approximations


Uses & ideas:
*1:12 miniature diorama scenes, patio gardens, porches, plant nurseries, botanical gardens, ponds, landscaping settings or outdoor displays in nature preserves
*club projects or activities - non commercial purposes


I hope you like this episode of the wildflowers & are inspired to make mini water lilies.

Thank you so much for watching & sharing.
Catherine