Egg Carton Flowers

This is a simple project that requires only a few supplies, but has pretty results. The finished flowers can be kept as is or added to other projects for a gentle touch of feminine appeal.

For this project you will need:

1 Cardboard egg carton

Pair of scissors

2 Colors of paint of your choice (1 for the petals, 1 for the leaves)

Paint brush

Glue gun

Glue sticks

4 Acrylic gems of your choice (must fit in the bottom of the egg cup)

First cut or gently tear away the lid and closure flap, setting the flap aside for the next step. Cut your egg carton apart, so that each cell is separate. I find it easier to cut them into strips of two and then cut them again.

Draw four petals on each of the cells then cut. You may also free cut (without pre-drawing), if you wish. Once you have all your petals cut, use the closure flap to cut four leaves.

NOTE: Trimming the pointy, jagged tops first may make it easier to cut your petals. Also, petals and leaves do not have to be perfect. The rough cutting adds to the charm.

Paint all petals inside and out and paint leaves front and back.

Note: You can paint more than one coat if you want your flowers more opaque. I like being able to see a little of the cardboard through mine.

Each section of blossom has four petals. Take the first section blossom and spread the petals open a little. Then layer two more sections, make sure to rotate each section so that the petals fall between the others. You do not want them to line up exactly, or your flower will not be full or look much like a flower.

NOTE: They may tear a little between the petals but you can snip them a little between each petal to help them separate if you prefer a cleaner line

Once you have your blossoms layered the way you want, remove just the top section and squeeze a little hot glue onto the middle section underneath then replace the top layer and press together. After a couple seconds lift the glued sections off the bottom section and add another blob of glue. Replace the top glued section and press. Then pinch the whole flower between your thumb and forefinger and press together to make sure all layers are securely glued together. Repeat with remaining blossoms.

Play around with the leaf placement. Once you find the leaf and position that works for you, flip the flower over and glue in place. Repeat with the remaining three flowers.

Note: You can make and add more leaves to your liking.

This part is easy. Place some glue into the center of each flower and top with a "gem". Press into place to secure.

YOU DID IT! Look at what you created!