Fresh flowers are indubitably beautiful but there is the unfortunate fact they only last a week. But, but what if my mum loves flowers, you say? Well, these two easy-to-make DIY gift ideas marry the beauty of flowers with our desire to create a Mother’s Day gift that is as interesting as it is stunning.
With a dash of whimsy, two buckets of happy thoughts and a truckload of love, you are well on your way into creating a floral creation that is thoughtful and uniquely yours and one that we know will last mum a lifetime.
Frame it up
What you’ll need:
- Frames (IKEA)
- Artificial flowers and greens (The Verge)
For a frame about 40cm x 50cm, one stalk of artificial flower will suffice - Matt Modpodge (Spotlight or Art Friend)
- Transparency (Fancy Paper)
- Paint brush
- Tape
- Scissors
- Glue
- Gold paint (Optional)
Step 1
Dismantle the flowers into layers and leave the bud aside (needed at Step 6). Start planning how you would like to arrange the flowers.
Step 2
Lay the frame insert flat on a clean surface. Arrange your blooms, overturned, on the frame insert.
Tip: Keep the arrangement of the blooms as flat as possible for better results.
Step 3
Using a paint brush, layer the upside of your blooms with matt Modpodge.
Step 4
Gently placed them back to your desired position, overturned. Fret not if it does not stick well.
Tip: Overlap flowers and leaves beyond the frame.
Step 5
Finalise your layout and place the transparency sheet on top.
Step 6
Trim off the overlapping blooms.
Step 7
Secure the frame insert and the transparency with tape on all four sides.
Step 8
Glue the bud of the flower on top of the frame insert.
Step 9
Frame up the artwork and let Modpodge dry overnight.
Vase with a motif
What you’ll need:
- Clear bottles (IKEA)
- White/Off-white paint
- Gold paint
- Printed leaves or flower images (download here)
- Flowers
- Matt Modpodge
- Paint brush
- Tape
- Glue
- Scissors
Step 1
Paint the bottle with white or off-white paint. Allow to dry thoroughly.
Step 2
Tape around the neck of the bottle and paint the rim gold. Allow to dry thoroughly before gently removing the tape
Step 3
Prepare your printouts.
Step 4
Glue the underside of your printouts and stick them onto the bottle firmly.
Step 5
Trim away excess materials
Step 6
Seal the printouts by applying a layer of matt Modpodge. Allow to dry thoroughly before filling the vase with your chosen flowers.
If you’re not a fan of flowers, select exotic greens for a tropical look. Highlight with gold paint for an overall exquisite look.
