Butterflies using Lutradur

We made these colourful butterflies by following an origami pattern and using Lutradur 30gsm (the finest Lutradur we supply).

Although Lutradur is very strong, it has a lovely translucent quality, making it ideal for projects requiring a delicate finish.

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.

A brightly coloured blue butterfly with an orange body, black legs and antennae resting on a white table. — Notice how the Lutradur fibres look similar to the veins of a butterfly’s wings.

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) none steam iron to make a crease.
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.
To add legs, we used paper clips, which we cut to size and pushed through the pipecleaner under the body.
We soon had a small gathering of brightly coloured butterflies!