What Materials and Tools Do I Need to Make Cabbage Roses from Fabric?
To make cabbage roses from fabric, you’ll need the following materials and tools:
- Fabric: Use scraps of polyester fabric that will melt when held near a flame, such as organza, satin, acetate lining, chiffon, and polyester lace. Mixing an opaque with a sheer fabric creates a pretty effect.
- Tools: Scissors, a needle, thread, and a candle.
- Pattern: Use a downloadable PDF pattern for the petals, available from sources like The DIY Mommy.
How Do I Cut the Petals for Cabbage Roses?
- Cut 6 petals of each of the four different sizes using the pattern. The exact sizes can vary, but typically you will need multiple sizes to create the layered effect of a cabbage rose.
How Do I Sear and Curl the Petals for Cabbage Roses?
- Carefully sear and curl the edges of each petal by holding them over a lit candle and rotating them one at a time. Adjust the distance from the flame based on the fabric thickness; thicker fabrics need to be closer to the flame.
How Do I Assemble the Cabbage Rose?
- Thread your needle and curl one of the smallest petals along its wider side. Sew it along the bottom to secure it.
- Continue curling petals around your first petal, overlapping them slightly and securing them by stitching them along the bottom. For a cabbage rose, do not gather the petals; instead, keep the center higher and the rest of the petals lower.
- Keep adding petals to your flower, going from the smallest size to the largest size. Finish with a secure knot in your thread. Typically, you will need around 6-8 petals for a single rose, but this can vary depending on the size and fullness desired.
What Finishing Techniques Can I Use for Cabbage Roses?
Wire Stems
- To create a wire stem, use 18-gauge floral wire. Wrap the wire around the base of the rose to secure it, and then wrap with floral tape or green fabric to cover the wire.
Leaf Additions
- For leaves, cut out leaf shapes from green fabric. You can use a template or draw the shapes freehand. Attach the leaves to the stem using floral wire or by sewing them onto the stem.
- Leaf dimensions can vary, but typically they should be proportionate to the size of the rose. For example, for a large cabbage rose, you might use leaves that are around 2-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide.
What is the Cost Breakdown and Where Can I Find Supplies for Cabbage Roses?
Fabric Costs
- The cost of fabric can vary widely depending on the type and quality. Generally, you can find suitable fabrics at craft stores like Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, Hobby Lobby, or online at Amazon.
- Prices can range from $5 to $15 per yard, depending on the fabric type and quality.
Other Materials
- Needle and thread: These are typically inexpensive and can be found at any craft store.
- Candle: A standard household candle will suffice.
- Floral wire and tape: These can be found at floral supply stores or online and usually cost a few dollars.
