St Patrick's Boutonnieres

Years ago Martha Stewart had a "good thing" St Patrick's idea. I filed it away and said someday I'm going to do that. So Thursday I scanned the article, printed out a copy and gave it a go. I decided to use paper rather than cloth because that's what I had close by. It eliminated a couple steps and I got it done quickly.

Step 1. After printing out your example, cut out the template of the clover. Trace it on to the back of the paper you've chosen. I chose three different green papers to make mine.



Step 2. Cut out your clovers, making sure not keep the pencil lines.



Step 3. Fold each clover petal in half from the back side. You want the crease to pull the leaves forward when you're looking at your print.



Step 4. Twist your wire. I used a small screwdriver to help twist the wire around. It wasn't difficult to do at all. Leave about a quarter inch at the top in a v shape for gluing it to the paper.







Step 5. In order to make sure the wire stayed stuck, I added an element to the paper version. I cut a small dot of paper about 3/8" in diameter for the back. I then added a bit of glue, stuck the wire into the glue and topped it with the small circle.





Step 6. Arrange your clover leafs together and add a bow. I tied a knot first hold hold it stable; and then did the bow. Voila!



Hopefully this will inspire you to make your own. I especially made this one for the big guy. He will be all alone on St Patricks day this year. I will be in Virginia with the new baby. I wanted him to know I was thinking about him still.