Crepe paper rhododendron with clusters of pink blooms and green leaves

In fact, our Crepe Paper Rhododendron Video Workshop feels especially close to home. Portland is known for its abundance of rhododendrons. Each late spring, the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden bursts into full bloom. Meanwhile, down the coast, Florence, Oregon, celebrates the flower with its Rhododendron Festival every May.

First, we'll shape each small, funnel-shaped bloom from Double-Sided Crepe Paper. Because the paper has a different shade on each side, every floret gets a natural shift in tone. Next, we'll add the long, curving stamens that reach past the petals, since those are what catch your eye up close.

This is an advanced project, mostly because of the number of florets. However, every floret follows the same steps. Once you've made two or three, the rest come together at a steady, relaxing pace. Then we'll gather the florets into a rounded truss and finish the stem with a ring of glossy leaves.

If this is your first advanced project, don't aim for perfect symmetry. Real rhododendron trusses are a little lopsided, with a few florets leaning out farther than the rest. That slight unevenness is what makes your crepe paper rhododendron look grown rather than made.

Rhododendrons also come in a wonderful range of colors. Beyond every shade of pink, from pale blush to bright fuchsia, you'll find them in red and purple, and even a soft pale yellow. So once you've made your first crepe paper rhododendron, try a second in a new color. The name comes from the Greek words for rose and tree, which suits a shrub that can grow taller than your front door.

A single crepe paper rhododendron makes a generous focal flower in a low bowl. For a bigger display, arrange several blooms on a grapevine wreath and hang it where you'll see it every day.

When you're finished, share your crepe paper rhododendron in our crafters' community and on social using #MadeWithLia.

FAQs

Is the crepe paper rhododendron too advanced for me?
Not if you take it one floret at a time. The steps repeat, and you can pause the video as often as you need.

Can I make the crepe paper rhododendron in other colors?
Absolutely. Real rhododendrons range from pale pink to deep purple, with a few soft yellow varieties too, so choose any double-sided crepe paper you love.

What's the difference between a rhododendron and an azalea?
Azaleas actually belong to the rhododendron family. In general, rhododendrons have larger leaves and fuller, rounder flower clusters.

Crepe paper rhododendron with clusters of pink blooms and green leaves
Crepe paper rhododendron with clusters of pink blooms and green leaves
Crepe paper rhododendron with clusters of pink blooms and green leaves

Paper Flower Garden Master Class

Learn the techniques, shaping secrets, and artistry behind Lia’s most-loved flowers in this immersive master class experience. From delicate petals to lifelike movement, you’ll create stunning blooms step-by-step alongside Lia. Free for Annual and Craft Circle members.

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