Brooch Flower Pin From Grandma's Polyester Blouse

My 92-year old Grandma passed away this year in March. She loved her polyester blouses! We could not bear to throw them away; so, I decided to make flower pins out of them. I think of her each and every time I wear or look at one.

Hope this inspires you to create your own memory flowers and remember wonderful Grandmas, Moms, Sisters, and friends - or, just make some for fun.

Step 1: Materials Needed

- 100% polyester blouse
- Circle templates cut out of cardboard measuring different circumferences as seen in image.
Each circle contains five "snip" markings; - the markings for the circles vary in range from 3/4"
for the larger circles all the way down to 3/8" for the smallest circle. I never measure or mark
the snip markings - I randomly snip each circle five times.
- Sheet protectors (optional)
- Fire starter
- Pliers (not shown)
- Scissors
- Thread and needle
- Beads (not shown)
- 1 1/2" adhesive pin back (not shown)

Step 2: Cutting Circles/Petals

Cut out cardboard templates of the eight different sized circles. (Optional - cut templates from sheet protectors and staple the cardboard and sheet protector together to each of the eight different sized circles to make a sturdier template.)

For double thickness, turn one sleeve inside out with right sides together. Pin each template circle to the wrong side of the fabric of the sleeve and trace around the circle.

Cut circles. You will have a total of 16 circles.

In each circle, snip five times.

Step 3: Creating/Burning Petals

In a well-ventilated area, hold each petal with pliers. Turn on your fire starter and run the flame about 1/2" from all sides of the petal.

The slight fire/warming curls the petals and creates an interesting texture to the edges of the petals - making them look very real!

Step 4: Assembling and Finishing

Stack the petals on top of each other - having the largest petal on the bottom.

Sew the petals together with a couple of stiches in the middle of all the petals - be sure to tie your knots.

Sew beads in the middle - as many or as few as strikes your fancy.

Adhere pin back to the back of the flower.

Wear proudly with fond memories!