Kanzashi is a traditional Japanese art of folding and sewing small pieces of fabric into decorative flowers. It is a beautiful and delicate craft that has been passed down through generations. Kanzashi flowers are often used as hair accessories, brooches, or home decor. In this tutorial, I will show you how to make a Kanzashi fabric flower step by step.
Materials Needed
- Fabric (cotton or silk)
- Scissors
- Needle and thread
- Ruler
- Iron
- Glue gun (optional)
Step 1: Cut the Fabric
Start by cutting your fabric into squares. The size of the square will determine the size of your flower. For a small flower, cut a 2-inch square. For a larger flower, cut a 4-inch square. You can experiment with different sizes to create different effects.
Step 2: Fold the Fabric
Take your fabric square and fold it in half diagonally to create a triangle. Then fold it in half again to create a smaller triangle. Press the fabric with an iron to create a crisp crease.
Step 3: Make the Petals
Starting at the longest edge of the triangle, fold a small section of the fabric over (about 1/4 inch) and then fold it over again. This will create a small pleat. Hold the pleat in place and repeat the process, folding another small section of the fabric over and then folding it over again. Continue this process until you have folded the entire length of the triangle.
Once you have folded the entire length of the triangle, you will have a small pleated strip of fabric. Hold the strip with one hand and use the other hand to gently push the fabric down towards the base of the strip. This will create a petal shape. Repeat this process to create more petals. Depending on the size of your fabric square, you can make anywhere from 3 to 8 petals.
Step 4: Form the Flower
Take your petals and arrange them in a circle. Make sure the folded edges are facing inwards and the points are facing outwards. Use a needle and thread to stitch the petals together at the base. Once all the petals are attached, pull the thread tight and tie a knot to secure the flower.
Step 5: Finish the Flower
To finish the flower, you can add a button or bead to the center of the flower. You can also use a glue gun to attach the flower to a hair clip or pin to make a hair accessory or brooch. Experiment with different fabrics, colors, and sizes to create a variety of Kanzashi flowers.
Conclusion
Kanzashi fabric flowers are a beautiful and unique way to add a touch of Japanese culture to your wardrobe or home decor. With a few simple materials and some practice, you can create a variety of beautiful flowers. Try making different sizes and colors to create a stunning bouquet. Happy crafting!