Best Cardstock Weight for Paper Flowers

Best all-purpose weight

For most paper flowers, 65 lb to 80 lb cover cardstock is the safest starting point. It is sturdy enough to hold a petal curve but flexible enough to shape around a pencil, dowel, or bone folder.

Small flowers

Use 65 lb cover for tiny flowers, favor toppers, and layered centers. Lighter paper gives small petals movement instead of making them look chunky.

Large wall flowers

Use 80 lb to 100 lb cover for big backdrops and display flowers. Score or gently curl the base of each petal so heavy cardstock does not crease in the wrong place.

What to avoid

Very glossy paper can resist glue, and extra-heavy stock can crack when curled tightly. If you love the color, test one petal before cutting the full flower.