Crepe is the base of our craft. You can’t make paper flowers without the paper! Now, you’re clicking around this blog, so you probably already know that crepe comes in a wide array of weights, ranging from extremely delicate to fairly sturdy. But whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or expert paper florist, understanding the differences in paper helps you know which paper to use for which project. So today, we’re diving into Italian 180 gsm crepe paper.

Italian crepe comes in different weights, and 180 gsm is referred to as “heavy weight” for a reason. As the thickest crepe, it’s sturdy and will hold its final shape very well. Just try to tear it. You’ll have to use some muscle! It can be stretched much farther than more delicate crepes, meaning you can deeply cup petals—an important trait to achieving a realistic look for certain kinds of flowers. 

That durability does come with some drawbacks, of course. You...