Ep 181: Scaling Up: The Art and Logistics of Making Large Paper Flowers

When we think of paper flowers, we often imagine something small, intricate, and realistic. But what happens when you scale that beauty up tenfold? In this episode of Paper Talk, Quynh Nguyen, Sara Kim, and Jessie Chui explore the bold, beautiful world of large paper flowers and the practical realities that come with going big.

Listen to this Episode to learn:

• Why large flowers require careful structural planning
  
• How to price and protect your work (and yourself)
  
• The importance of weather, shipping, and storage considerations
• Creative ways to include large flowers in your business offerings

Creating giant paper flowers is both an artistic and logistical challenge. As Quynh shared, even the smallest miscalculation can cause a flower to droop or collapse. “I watched one of my large flowers start to wilt before my eyes,” she said. “I had to go back and rewire it.” Wiring each petal, reinforcing the base, and using durable materials are essential steps for any large-scale project.

For Sara, the biggest lessons came from experience. “Even when my flowers stood perfectly in my studio, they would tip over at outdoor events. Wind, heat, and humidity change everything,” she explained. Over time, she realized that offering large flower installations professionally required more than artistic skill, it required business planning, insurance, and honest client communication.

Jessie agreed, adding that the paper flower business side of things can’t be ignored. “It’s not just about making the flower,” she said. “It’s about managing logistics, installation, and liability. Once you step into larger projects, you’re responsible for safety and presentation.”

So, what should artists know before offering giant paper flowers for events or retail displays?

• Structure Comes First - Use strong wiring, test every connection, and consider how gravity will affect your flower over time. Hanging or standing pieces should be tested for at least 24 hours before installation.

• Communicate Clearly with Clients - Set expectations about weather sensitivity and handling. As Sara put it, “Treat paper flowers like real flowers—they’re beautiful but fragile.”

• Plan for Storage and Transport - Large flowers take up significant space. Think about storage, dust protection, and packaging. If you must ship, factor in both the size and fragility—shipping costs can quadruple quickly.

• Protect Your Business - Event venues often require liability insurance, especially for installations. “Even if you’re just setting up a backdrop,” Jessie noted, “you need coverage in case something happens.”
• Start with One Big Bloom - If you’re new to large-scale work, start small. Make one flower for yourself. It’s fun, forgiving, and will teach you about scale, structure, and creativity.

Despite the hurdles, large flowers remain a showstopper. They command attention, tell stories, and redefine what paper art can be. Whether they’re adorning a wedding ceremony, retail window, or photo backdrop, these flowers remind us that art can bloom in any size.

As Quynh summed it up beautifully,

“Paper flowers can bloom in every size. The key is knowing how to make them stand tall.”

👉 The Best Thing We Bought for Under $20

• Quynh: PVC Pipe Cutter 
• Jessie: Shark Bite Garden Valve

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If you’ve been craving a creative community or wondering how to take your next step, let this episode remind you that you are not alone. You can start small. You can begin today.