Uncommon Paper Flowers by Kate Alarcon

Uncommon Paper Flower by Kate Alarcon ISBN-13: 9781452176932 Hardcover: 240 pages Publisher: Chronicle Books Released: October 15, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
This book unveils the alluring world of uncommon botanicals, including a prickly cactus that played a storied role in the founding of an ancient city, a tiny pink mushroom that glows green in the dark, and a magnificent blue cactus with rows of golden spines.

Celebrated paper designer Kate Alarcón reveals the rich histories and unique characteristics behind 30 remarkable plants alongside instructions for crafting stunning paper versions of each one. These eye-catching creations make perfect wedding centerpieces, beautiful arrangements (that never wilt!) to brighten a home, and cheerful gifts for any occasion. Brimming with fascinating botanical trivia, vivid photography, and essential design techniques, this is a breathtaking resource for flower lovers, crafters, and anyone fascinated by the mysteries of the natural world.


My Review:
Uncommon Paper Flowers taught how to create 30 unusual plants from crepe paper. The author started by providing trivia and historical information about each plant (different flowers, mushrooms, cacti, etc.). She then briefly described the types of tools and materials needed for the projects. You basically need different colors and types of crepe paper, glue, and some paints and markers. She also briefly described the basic techniques for cutting, forming, and decorating the petals, leaves, and stem.

She then provided step-by-step projects for creating the unusual plants that she talked about earlier. There were clear, full-color pictures for each step along with written text describing what to do. Unfortunately, my review copy was missing most of the text directions, so I'm not sure how easy the instructions are to understand and do. I got the impression that a complete beginner might want more direction but that someone used to paper-cutting projects would be fine. There were templates for the petals, leaves, and such in the back of the book that you're supposed to photocopy and cut out. I'm not sure how that would work with an ebook, so buying a paper copy of this book may be best.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.