Mementoes In Time

I love to give people flowers but here in this climate, they often wilt and die, especially at this time of year! So, here is a nice little idea for making a miniature gift for someone special, our new template for a chipboard vase. With Mother's Day coming up in the UK, this would make a lovely project to say how much you care!

I am no flower arranger and I certainly don't have much patience to spend playing with things, so you have to look at my efforts with squinty eyes. The template is so easy to use, that it would work equally well with punched flowers or even mini tissue flowers, if you are not happy working with this kind of paper flower.

The template includes two sizes of vase but I particularly like this small one, which is just the right size for using paper roses. If you would like to know more about this project, read on...

I've cut out my template pieces from chipboard. In this example, I have chosen to make the small vase.

Next,  I've glued them onto the reverse of my paper, that I want to use to cover the outside with. I then cut around the pieces with scissors.

Here are the covered pieces. I've then turned them over and done the same on the other side with some co-ordinating paper.

Here is the reverse side

Next, you need to construct your box on the reverse of one of the vase pieces. I know I always go on about using the right glue but honestly, it is worth getting a good solvent craft glue when you are working with chipboard. The bond is quick and the glue is clear, so you don't see so much mess.

Construct the box, so that it is approximately 1.5cm from the top of the vase. You could make it further down if you like, it just depends on the type of flowers and the length of the stems that you are going to use.

There is the final side to the box

Now, just put some glue along the edges of the box and put your other vase piece in place.

Make sure that the vase stands level by standing it upright to check.

Now you can fill your vase. Here is one done in pink, instead of lilac. You can either cut a piece of flower arranging oasis to size and slot it into the box, or a piece of plasticine. I have chosen to use plasticine, as this weights the vase a little and I have thrown out all my oasis!

Here they are together. I think I need a bit more greenery in my vase to fill it up but I think it makes a lovely little gift for someone. You could add a mini tag to the side with a message or just put it on your own bookshelf, as I have done.

I hope you have enjoyed this project. Please do leave a comment if you have enjoyed reading this post.