Hi! Im making fondant flowers for the first time for a special tropical themed cake this weekend. I did a bunch of plumerias that turned out great today, and would like to do some hibiscus and/or stargazer lilies. The only tutorials Ive seen use floral wire and multiple shaped cutters for the petals. I dont want to invest in a bunch of supplies like this until I know I can get the hang of it so can anyone recommend a method for making either of these flowers without the wire, specifically? I think I could get away with hand cutting the petals out if I make a template. Thanks for your help!

There is a tutorial here on CC. Only wire is for the main stamen. 

Quick Hibiscus Tutorial - Cake Central

Hello! I use the wire at Walmart for $1. If nothing else, buy the wire. Its a small investment to avoid pulling your hair out later. 

Jchuck's link is perfect.  If you don't have the rose 5 petal cutter, then just use your template to cut out the design that is on the 5 petal cutter, making sure to leave the center area intact.

Google:  five petal rose cutter

and you'll see lots of pictures.