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How to Make Floral Arrangements (Part 1)

Flower Ornaments For Any Occasion

In our previous blogs, we gave you a brief history on floristry. Then we talked about the basics of floral arrangements, focusing on design and color. Now, we discuss making floral designs and arrangements. For this series, we learn the do's and do n'ts of flower design. First, we explore common designs for different containers. Then, we talk about styles used by florists for various occasions. The first part focuses on common arrangements, like vase bouquets, corsages, and designs. We take you thru selecting flowers to making personalized designs. We will help you learn common flower arrangements for different needs. In part two, we learn how to create arrangements for specific occasions. From wedding decor to gift baskets, they are perfect for showing your creativity. Plus, nothing beats getting to help your clients with their floral needs! Read ahead if you want a formal track on designing floral arrangements. Look into the American Institute of Floral Designers or the AIFD (www.aifd.org), and the Society of American Florists (www.safnow.org), among others. Keep reading for detailed tutorials on basic flower arrangements. Release your artistic side and add a personal touch to every floral design you create!

Simple Assorted Container/Vase Arrangement.

Vase arrangements are more common than you think they are. Shallow bowls, square containers, or the odd bucket - you got it. From centerpieces to home décor, this timeless arrangement brings life to any space. Here's how to make a simple but elegant arrangement in vases. Select and prepare your container, flowers and greens. Start off by cutting the ends of the stems at a 45-degree angle. Put a floral foam in the base for more efficient water absorption and sturdier arrangements. Place the foliage and main flowers. Secure them in the floral foam and repeat 2-3 times as you like. Place the accent flowers in. Turn the vase around as you place the smaller flowers and secure them in the foam. Keep the arrangement levelled in form and color. Awesome!

Hand-Tied Bouquet.

Hand-tied bouquets have always been a winner in the romance department. First dates? Anniversaries? Wedding proposals? The inevitable "I'm Sorry" bouquets? Whatever it is, you won't go wrong with a hand-tied bouquet. Its hand-picked blossoms and delicate arrangement makes any bouquet precious for every recipient. To get that perfect hand-tied bunch, follow these simple steps. Choose and prep your flowers and foliage. Start your arrangement by laying out your flowers. Try to arrange them in varying sizes and lengths with 4-5 various types for the best results. Like we talked about in our last article, choose your colors first to base your flowers and foliage off of. Trim the ends of the stems at a 45-degree angle. Then remove excess leaves and thorns for easy handling. Take a stem of foliage and place your main flower flush against it. Insert your accent flowers and angle them towards the center. Rotate the arrangement and repeat until all sides have accents. Add the other accents in according to their colors and types and balance out as needed. Bind the top of the stems with string and ribbon. Trim the ends at the same length to let the bouquet stand on its own. Perfect!

Wrist Corsage or Boutonniere Set.

Styling corsages is a valuable skill that helps you enhance your floristry skills. You can use it for baby showers, a mom-to-be, or your kids' prom night!

Here's a step by step guide to designing corsages:.

  • Select and ready your flowers. Like any arrangement, keep your stems fresh and snip off the ends at a 45-degree angle at 2 inches long.
  • Make a bunch in any style. Let your creative juices flow and design your own bunch.
  • Secure the arrangement. Tie up your flower bunch with green floral tape and again with a ribbon around the stems.

Read all about Color Theory in Floristry in our next article.