How to Make a Realistic Paper Scabiosa Pod with Cardstock

Hello, crafty friends! Today, I’m excited to share a step-by-step tutorial on making paper scabiosa pods—perfect as filler flowers for bouquets, wedding arrangements, or home decor. Using simple cardstock and a few shaping techniques, you can create these delicate pods that add amazing texture to any paper floral project!

Supplies You’ll Need:

✔️ White 65 lb cardstock (for the main pod)
✔️ Fig purple-red cardstock (for the center star shape)
✔️ Green tissue paper
✔️ Floral wire stem
✔️ Hot glue gun
✔️ White glue
✔️ Cricut, Silhouette, or cutting machine (optional – print and cut file included)
✔️ Shaping tool (or a pencil)
✔️ Scissors

You can find a downloadable template https://www.handmadebysarakim.com/digital-templates/scabiosa-pod-template

Step 1: Cutting the Paper Pieces

  • Print the template on white cardstock and cut at least 20 pod pieces (adjust based on your desired size).

  • Cut the center star shape from fig purple-red cardstock (also at least 20 pieces).

Step 2: Shaping the Pieces

  • Roll the printed pod piece into a cone shape, gluing the straight edge.

  • Use a shaping tool or a pencil to gently curl the top edges of the cone.

  • Take the star shape and curl back its fringe edges, then roll up the straight edge to form a cylinder shape.

Step 3: Assembling the Scabiosa Pod

  • Hot glue the star-shaped piece inside the cone, making sure the fringes fan out evenly.

  • Repeat this process for at least 15 pods—you may need more depending on your final arrangement.

Step 4: Making the Tissue Paper Base

  • Crumple a small piece of green tissue paper into a ball.

  • Glue the ball onto a floral wire stem for support.

  • Cut a larger square piece of tissue paper, fold it into quarters, and round the edges to form a circle.

  • Wrap this around the tissue ball with white glue, securing it neatly.

Step 5: Attaching the Pods

  • Cut 5 small leaves from green paper (optional for extra detail).

  • Glue each scabiosa pod one by one onto the tissue-covered ball, ensuring even coverage.

  • Use tweezers for precision since the pods are small and delicate.

Final Touches & Uses

Your paper scabiosa pod is now complete! These make great fillers for bridal bouquets, floral centerpieces, and paper flower arrangements. Try making a bunch for your next DIY bouquet!

Find the full video tutorial above, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more paper flower tutorials!

-SaraKim

Sara KimpaperflowersComment