From Petal to Bloom: Crafting Paper Hollyhocks

In my home studio in Manchester, where a generous window frames trees and the slow rhythm of the garden, paper hollyhocks begin their life.

The process begins gently — with yellow fringes. These fine threads are curled and gathered, forming the soft clump of anthers at the heart of each bloom. Subtle, but quietly essential.

Next come the petals — always the most time-consuming part of any paper flower. I cut them all at once from full rolls of crepe paper, ensuring I have enough not just for the current bloom but for future ones too. It’s a practice of preparation, intention, and a little foresight.

To add nuance and texture, I shade each petal with richly pigmented Japanese coloured pencils — now just stubs in my hand from years of use. Their colour sinks into the crepe like breath into lungs, bringing each petal to life.

There’s a meditative rhythm in the repetition — an almost musical quality to the making. Every petal, every curl, every twist is a moment to slow down, to make with care.

Many of you choose these paper flowers as gifts — and I want you to know: they carry with them the quiet joy of this place. Of morning light through trees, of tea on the windowsill, of care poured into every detail.

May the paper hollyhock bloom brightly — wherever it lands.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into the process — from petal to bloom.

To have your own everlasting version of this most beloved English garden favourite, you can find it here.

Beam x