8 Reasons to Decorate with Paper Flowers

No matter the season, there are plenty of reasons to decorate with paper flowers.

A paper sunflower is among real sunflowers in a garden near a birdbath.

May is one of the most beautiful months here on the mountain. The yard abounds with colorful blooms and the the delicate, sweet scent of lilac and lavender lightly perfumes the air.

Our home is also decorated with fresh flowers. Today, I filled a large antique ironstone pitcher with soft pink peonies. Soon after, Little Bear brought me a handpicked bouquet of vivid pink daisies that I placed in a tiny vintage cream pitcher.

I love bringing the beauty of nature into our home. Nevertheless, when flowers aren’t springing up outside our doorstep, I like to decorate with faux stems; specifically, handmade paper flowers.

A paper peony is on a log near a real peony plant.

Popular in Victorian London, paper flowers have ancient roots dating back centuries. Many modern designs have a timeless, authentic look that might make you wonder if the buds and blossoms are real.

You might be wondering why I prefer to decorate with paper flowers instead of dried flowers. The reason is simple: they are visually more vibrant. (Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoy the rustic look and earthy fragrances of the bundles of dried sage, sachets of dried lavender, and slices of dried citrus I keep around the house.)

Keep reading for eight more reasons to decorate with paper flowers.

A graphic with the text "8 reasons to decorate with paper flower" shows two images of paper flowers, a sunflower and a rose, next to real ones.

1. Paper Flowers Are Beautiful

Paper flowers of all kinds — from realistic florals made with mulberry paper to artistic petals shaped out of newspaper — are a pretty way to add a touch of charm and whimsy to your home.

A realistic-looking blue paper hydrangea is in the background of this sunny photo. A real hydrangea blooms next to it in the foreground.

2. Paper Flowers Are Handmade

Like hand-knit socks or a hand-thrown stoneware mug, the handcrafted nature of paper flowers makes them even more special — and somehow even more inviting. Talk about creating a cozy and comforting space!

In the foreground, a child holds paper lavender flowers. Real Spanish lavender blooms in the background.

3. Paper Flowers Are Plastic-Free

These faux botanicals are eco-friendly, sustainable, and reusable. Not to mention, they won’t look too shiny or waxy.

Purple and yellow calla lilies are in bloom. A white paper calla lily is beside them.

4. Paper Flowers Are Affordable

Investing in paper flowers is much more cost-effective than purchasing real flowers every week. Prices vary, but I think the cost is totally worth it for the beauty and enjoyment they bring.

A graphic with the text "paper flowers artful and affordable" shows a pink peony plant next to a paper peony lookalike.

5. Paper Flowers Are Long-Lasting

These blooms won’t wilt and don’t require any water mixed with vinegar and sugar to stay fresh; however, you may want to keep them out of the sun, so the colors don’t fade. They make wonderful keepsakes.

A paper lilac is next to a real lilac bush.

6. Paper Flowers Are Customizable

Arrangements can be tailored to your color palette and design style, from bright bohemian to farmhouse chic, for a truly bespoke bouquet. Plus, they come in a variety of sizes (perhaps you’re going for an Alice in Wonderland vibe) and textures.

A pale colored paper rose is in the foreground. Behind it are real red rose buds and blooms.

7. Paper Flowers Are (Usually) Vegan

The same can’t be said for silk and even some polyester faux flower alternatives. If this is important to you, look for paper made without gelatin.

Paper daisy flowers are in front of real daisies, which are blurred in the background.

8. Paper Flowers Are Always in Season

Want to style winter blooming camellias with summer flowering Queen Anne’s Lace? Enjoy your favorite flowers, even when they’re out of season, with lovely paper lookalikes.

A purple balloon flower plant is next to a paper lily and a real lily.

Hope this post inspired you to decorate with paper flowers. Whether you buy from skilled artisans or go the DIY route, have fun!

I’d love to learn about your favorite ways to decorate with flowers throughout the year in the comments below.

The text reads, "With love, Jordan" in black against a white background. "With love" is in a typewriter font and "Jordan" is written in a handwriting style.

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