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Scarlet Pimpernel

You will need

Basic equipment (page 6) Ouillmg papers:

2mm ('/:2in) green for stems 3mm ('/sin) green for leaves, catyxes and sepals 3mm ('/sin) crimson for flowers and trims 5mm (Yiein) ivory for fringed flower centres Metallic gold gift bag 3mm (/«in) wide double-sided tape Ribbon slot punch, hammer and cutting mat 60cm (23 /2in) of 17mm (6^J/iin) wide red ribbon

The Latin name of this member of the primrose family is Anagallis arvensis. It is a creeping, low-growing plant with scarlet flowers (though they can be pink, white, lilac or blue), found on cultivated or disturbed ground. It was once thought to be a cure for madness and ‘melancholy’.

Sir Percy Blakeney, the foppish hero of Baroness Orczy’s novel The Scarlet Pimpernel, chose the name as his alias. The flowers open wide only in bright sunshine, making it difficult to spot at times, which is perhaps why it is associated with Sir Percy, known as ‘that damned elusive Pimpernel’.

The flower’s habit of opening only for a short time each day and closing during duli or wet weather has led to it being regarded for centuries as a combined barometer and clock.

You can make your own gift bag using metallic gold card, or buy one ready-made to decorate.

Craft foam pad Single hole punch Ruler

The pattem for the Scarlet Pimpernel ęuillmg. shcwn fuli s&e.

II u || u || u ||

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