How to make a cactus from paper with your own hands: detailed instructions for beginners and not only

In today's world, manual labor is becoming not just a way to get away from everyday life, but a real therapy. One of the simplest and at the same time spectacular options for creativity at home is the following paper crafting. Today we will tell you how to make a decorative paper cactus, which will become a great interior element, a gift for a friend or even a participant in a school crafts contest. The instructions are suitable for adults and children, do not require expensive materials, and most importantly - available for repetition at home.

Materials that will be needed

Nothing supernatural is required to make a paper cactus. Everything can be found at home or purchased at the nearest stationery store:

• Green cardboard or heavy colored paper (preferably at least 160 g/m²);
• Colored cardboard for decoration (yellow, red, brown);
• The cup is plastic, paper, or even from yogurt;
• PVA glue or glue stick (for children it is better to use safe glue stick);
• Scissors with a sharp blade;
• A simple pencil;
• Black felt-tip pen or thin marker;
• Cotton, paper napkins or newspapers (to fill the pot);
• Ruler and circles (optional, for precise markings).

Step 1: Create a template for the base of the cactus

Before you start assembling, you need to make a template to cut out the main elements of the cactus. On the green cardboard, use a pencil to draw a shape resembling an elongated drop or leaf. This will be the base for one of the sides of the cactus. The height should be about 10-12 centimeters, the width in the widest place - about 6-7 centimeters.

After the first blank is drawn, carefully cut it out along the contour and use it as a template for the rest. It is necessary to get from 6 to 8 such identical elements. The more blanks, the more voluminous the final cactus will be. Make sure that all the parts are as symmetrical as possible - this will ensure a beautiful shape.

Step 2: forming the volume from the paper segments

Each cut out piece should be folded exactly in half along the vertical axis. Make the fold carefully without damaging the paper. It is better to make the fold with a ruler, so it will be even and clear.

Now we start gluing the pieces together. Take two folded pieces and glue one of the halves together. Apply to it the half of the next piece, pressing tightly along the fold line. In this way connect all the elements in a circle: half to half, until you get a solid volumetric structure in the form of a ball with ribbed edges. Connect the last half with the first half. The result is a vertical cactus with a relief surface.

Step 3: Create texture and visual details

To add realism to the cactus, it is necessary to imitate the characteristic prickles. To do this, take a thin black marker or felt-tip pen and make short strokes on the edges of each "petal" part. The strokes can be placed chaotically or staggered, depending on the desired effect. The finer and neater the lines, the better the result will look.

Also, if desired, you can add decorative elements: draw eyes, mouth, make a facial expression or add accessories, such as a miniature hat or a sign with an inscription.

Step 4: decorating the flower for the cactus

Almost all cacti bloom, and our paper version will be no exception. To do this, take a sheet of red or yellow cardboard and draw a flower on it. It can be a daisy shape, a five-pointed star, or a fancy flower with wavy petals.

Cut out the flower along the contour. If desired, you can add a center of a different color. Glue the flower to the top of the cactus with a drop of glue. If you plan to make a craft with children, you can let them choose the color and shape of the flower - it stimulates imagination and develops motor skills.

Step 5: making the "pot" and final assembly

Our cactus can't just stand on the table - it needs a stable decorative pot. Any small cup will do. Fill it halfway with crumpled paper, absorbent cotton or even sand - the main thing is to keep the cactus from falling over.

You can glue paper on the pot, draw patterns, use decorative elements - it all depends on where the craft will stand. Then glue the base of the cactus to the "soil" in the glass. Make sure it holds firmly and does not wobble.

Extra tip: a movable craft

If you want to make your cactus interactive, you can cut a thin strip of paper, twist it into a spiral and use it as a spring between the base of the cactus and the "ground" in the pot. A slight breeze or touch will cause the cactus to sway slightly, which adds liveliness and fun. This effect is especially appealing to children.

Conclusion

Paper cactus crafts are a great way to spend time with usefulness and pleasure. It does not require complicated materials and is suitable for both home and school activities. The process of making develops motor skills, attentiveness and a sense of form. The finished result can be used as a decoration, a gift or an element of an exhibition. And the main thing is that it is pleasing to the eye and will never wilt.