I recently spent an entire day crafting this lovely silk flower. It is so simple to make! The flower can be used in many different ways, as well -- hair clips, brooches, pins, embellishments.

Step 1:

To make these pretty flowers (or clips, brooches, pins, etc.), you will need:

**synthetic fabric, such as polyester
**scissors
**candle and matches/lighter
**glass jar, filled with water
**clothes pin
**a piece of foil
**needle
**thread
**beads, buttons or other embellishments
*hair bobby, clip, pin blank, etc. optional
*strong adhesive optional

Step 2:

Cut out circles (or whatever shape you like) from the silk that are slightly larger than your desired finished flower size. I used concentric circles for ours for a fuller, layered look. Cut a few extra, to allow for experimenting and mess-ups.

Step 3:

Light your candle, and place on a sturdy surface, away from flammables, pets and children. Place your cup/jar of water within reach.

Step 4:

Using a clothes pin, hold one fabric circle over -- not in -- the flame of the candle

Quickly rotate the fabric circle above the flame. The fabric will curl and may change colors

You'll want to experiment with a few extra circles, as different fabrics will act uniquely when held near the flame. Some will curl in one direction, some turn colors, some crinkle. Holding them closer to the flame or longer will also achieve different results. Once you've achieved the look you want, set the circle aside on the foil to cool.

Repeat on all the fabric circles. Extinguish your candle when you are finished.

Step 5:

EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: If you hold the fabric circle still for too long, or too close to the flame, it will scorch and/or catch on fire. If this happens, quickly and carefully place the burning fabric in the jar of water to extinguish the flame. Be very vigilant -- as some fabrics tend to ignite quicker than others!

Step 6:

Next, arrange and stack your fabric circles (petals) into flowers.

Using your needle and thread, sew a few stitches through all the layers of petals -- just a little "X" will do -- fastening all the petals together. Tie off thread in the back of the flower.