Let's Make Zinnia Flowers from Pine Cones!

Oh, look at all those beautiful zinnias!

But wait, what do you mean they are actually pine cones??

Yes yes, it's true.

These are pine cones pretending to be zinnias.

You see, these came about in the most curious and unexpected manner.

One day very recently, I was sitting at my work bench, feeling rather lack luster.

I had my hand on my chin, wondering what I wanted to make or do.

I was actually rather bored that day, as I sat and stared at some less than perfect pine cones sitting on my studio work bench.

I had collected them off the ground under my pine tree for holiday decorating.

And here they sat, 3 months later.

In my way really.

I picked one up, tossing it about in my hand.

When the most curious thing happened!

I took my pine cone and flipped it over.

Only to reveal a zinnia on the bottom side.

I gasped really, I was so surprised.

So, I grabbed some standard acrylic craft paint, and painted a few pine cone bottoms.

Pretty much just to prove to myself that what I thought I was seeing was true.

With each stroke of the brush, a real zinnia emerged.

I was utterly amazed.

Zinnias hiding under pine cones?!?

Who knew?

After I painted some up I realized you could either leave the tops pointy, in their regular state, as below, or...

You could use craft cutters to remove some of the pine cone petals and reveal a stem, like below.

Either way works just fine.

I think they are easier to arrange in a bowl if you just leave them as they are in their natural state.

You can also paint your pine cone bottom white first and let it dry before applying brighter colors.

Then add the colors of your choice.

Don't be afraid to layer different colors and shades for depth.

A little paint and there you have zinnias that never ever fade.

Are you as gobsmacked as I was?

Who on earth knew that zinnias would be hiding in such a place?

I sure didn't.

Such an easy and pretty craft.

All you need is acrylic craft paint and a brush, and you'll be well on your way to a perfect bouquet of zinnias.

Great for gifts and even for mother's day on its way.

They sit perfectly in a bowl, those wonderfully tricky pine cones.

So, if you find yourself kicking around pine cones on your walks, pick up a few.

Take them home, and give them a whirl.

I'd love to see yours.

If you make some, feel free to send me some photos, I'll post them here.

Pine cone fun!!!

Let's get crafting.

This one's too easy to pass up, don't you think?

Love, Vanessa