I am crazy about little flying critters like bees, birds and butterflies.   They provide such joy to the garden, spreading pollen and cheering me with chirping and buzzing.  However, it is a little too early for massive amounts of bees and butterflies in my neck of the woods.  So this time of year I like to make my own flying beauties to spread some smiles.

How to make paper butterflies:

These little butterflies are very easy to make.  Just trace the shape of a butterfly, large or small, onto decorative craft paper.  Next you will outline the butterfly with pipe cleaners.   Glue the pipe cleaners in place while gently bending them.  Allow to dry.  The easiest way to glue the pipe cleaners in place on your butterfly shape is with hot glue.  First I shape the pipe cleaner and then spread hot glue on a 1-2 inch section, finally press the pipe cleaner into place.  Continue moving around the shape until all the lines are covered.  After the glue hardens just cut out the shape along the outside edge.  You can attach loops to the back to be able to hang them from branches or attach mini clothes pins.

Ways to use your butterflies:

These festive butterflies can be used to decorate indoor tree branches or placed strategically around your home.  I also use them as gift tags and place setting name holders.  If you attach 5 or 6 of them to a ribbon or cord you could also use them as a garland.  I hope that you will try your hand at making these lovely decorations.  If butterflies are not your thing however, you can use the same technique to make birds, leaves and flowers.