Lutradur Butterflies

We made these colourful butterflies by following an origami pattern and using Lutradur 30gsm, a few pipe cleaners and some black paperclips!

Although Lutradur is very strong, it has a lovely translucent quality, making it ideal for projects that require a delicate finish. For these butterflies, we used 30gsm, which is the lightest Lutradur we stock and supply.

We used transfer paints to colour the Lutradur and, of course, all sorts of additional decoration could be applied, such as free-style machine stitching, sequins, etc.

First, colour a square of Lutradur 30gsm with transfer paint or other medium.
Then fold the square in half vertically, then horizontally and lightly press each fold with a warm (not hot) non steam iron to make two creases.
Turn the Lutradur over and fold diagonally in both directions, continuing to press each fold, then open out.
Bring the sides to the centre, so they meet each other. Then flatten to form a triangle.
Fold the lower corners up to the top point of your triangle and press.
Turn over, and then raise the central point upwards so that it protrudes about 5mm above the top edge and fold over the tip.
To secure the folds and form a body, wrap a pipe cleaner around the middle section.
Fold in half along the body, bringing both sides together to add volume to the wings.
Cut some black paper clips and push through the pipe cleaner to make the legs and antennae.
We soon had a small gathering of brightly coloured butterflies!