The red poppy has long been a symbol of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers during World War I. In the famous poem by John McCrae, In Flanders Fields, the red poppy grows wild in the fields of Europe where battles were fought and men are buried. It is said that the poppies thrived in the churned up earth and their red blossoms could be seen for miles. The poppy has now come to symbolize the sacrifices made by all servicemen and women who have lost their lives while fighting for our freedom. On Memorial Day and Veteren’s Day, as well as on Remembrance Day in other countries, the red poppy is worn proudly by millions so that we never forget the struggles endured by so many.
Making these poppies is one way to mark the Memorial Day holiday. The flowers also make a meaningful project for you to work on with your kids and would be great as a school project or scout troop activity.
Supplies
- red tissue paper cut into 3 1/2″ squares
- black paper cut into 3″ x 1/4″ rectangle
- white pipe cleaner
- glue
- green floral tape
Step 1
- fold the tissue paper in half; then fold in half again
Step 2
- fold the squares into triangles and cut as shown
Step 3
- cut fringe into the black rectangular paper
Step 4
- fold down the top of the white pipe cleaner about a 1/4″
- glue the pipe cleaner to the fringed paper
- roll up the paper with the pipe cleaner; I added a bit of glue as I rolled to keep it secure
Step 5
- thread the flower petals onto the pipe cleaner
- you can decide how many petals to use; I used 4 petals for this example
Step 6
- wrap the pipe cleaner with green floral tape
Ideas
- Make a bunch to present to a veteran
- Snip off the pipe cleaner, leaving about an inch, and wear the poppy on a jacket
- Make a border of poppies in your garden or along your driveway to celebrate Memorial Day
