Paper Succulent Tutorial and Templates

I recently crafted a paper succulent to use as a photo prop with new heart plant stakes. It was so much fun to make and such a lovely shade of green that I decided to create a tutorial and offer the cutting files and template so that you can make your own. It's super easy to make — after cutting and curling the pieces, simply layer the leaves on a flat-top toothpick until the little plant reaches the desired size.

Start by curling the leaves on all the pieces (see video). Then, use hot glue or craft glue to adhere the small piece without a center hole to the top of the toothpick. Before the glue sets, add the next piece and squish together to flatten the glob of hot glue. Add all the leaves in the smallest size, offsetting the petals and dabbing a bit of craft glue (find out my favorite craft glue) at the toothpick between layers. Continue to the next size set of leaves and follow the process until complete.

TIP: Find flat-top toothpicks at the grocery store next to the regular toothpicks. They have a spindle top. I used a brand from Diamond called L'Elegance Toothpicks.

Get the PDF template for cutting by hand or the SVG and DXF files for digital cutters including the Cricut Explore and Silhouette.