Identify the center corner
After two folds, mark the corner where all layers meet. Do not remove that point or the flower will separate.
Quarter-fold flower resource
Paper Cutting Flower Template
This flower uses a quarter-fold so each curved opening repeats around the center. Keep the center point and both folded edges connected while cutting the nested petals.
Fold / Cut / Reveal
DifficultyBeginner
Time25 minutes
Age8+
Freehand flower option
Prefer a freehand flower?
Follow the step-by-step flower cutting tutorial to fold, mark, cut, and open a connected eight-petal flower without using the lotus template download.
Read the flower guide
Protect the center and petal bridges
Space the petal openings
Leave an uncut band between nested curves so each ring of petals stays attached.
Test the tightest curve
Practice the inner curve on scrap paper before cutting through all folded layers.
Print and display
Use the flower template without weakening it
Print at actual size
Keep the browser print scale at 100% so the narrow spaces between petals do not shrink.
Keep the guide aligned
Place the marked center and fold lines directly over the folded paper before securing the guide.
Press from the center
After opening, smooth the flower from its center toward the outer petals to avoid catching a bridge.
Radial flower sequence
Cut from the center outward
The smallest nested opening needs the most support, so complete it before shaping the outer petal edge.
- 01
Quarter-fold
Fold a square in half and in half again, keeping the center point at the lower corner.
- 02
Draw nested petals
Sketch two curved openings without touching the center or both side folds.
- 03
Cut small to large
Remove the inner petal first, then the outer curve.
- 04
Unfold into eight petals
Release each fold and smooth the flower from its center outward.
Asked at the craft table
Paper Cutting Flower Template questions
Why did the center of my flower fall out?+
A cut crossed the folded center or removed every bridge around it. Leave the center corner and at least one band between each petal ring.
Can I use only one fold?+
Yes, but the result will be mirrored rather than repeating around four quarters. Redraw the petal layout for that fold.
Can the template be made smaller?+
It can, but shrinking also narrows every bridge. Check the print preview and avoid sizes that are narrower than your scissor tip can control.
Keep exploring