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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 went over the basics of floral arrangements, focusing on color and design. Now, we talk about making floral designs and arrangements. In this series, we learn the do's and do n'ts of flower design. First, we look at common designs for different containers. Then, we discuss styles used by florists for various occasions. The first part focuses on basic arrangements, like vase designs, corsages, and bouquets. We take you thru selecting flowers to making custom designs. We will help you learn common flower arrangements for different needs. In part two, we learn how to make 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! If you want a formal course on designing floral arrangements, read ahead. Look into the American Institute of Floral Designers or the AIFD (www.aifd.org), and the Society of American Florists (www.safnow.org), to name a few. Keep reading for detailed tutorials on basic flower arrangements. Unleash your artistic side and put a personal touch to every floral design you make!

Simple Assorted Container/Vase Arrangement.

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

Hand-Tied Bouquet.

Hand-tied bouquets have always been a winner in the romance department. 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 blooms and delicate arrangement makes any bouquet special for every recipient. To create that perfect hand-tied bunch, follow these simple steps. Select and prep your flowers and foliage. Start your arrangement by laying out your flowers. Try to arrange them in differing sizes and lengths with 4-5 various types for the best results. Like we discussed in our last article, pick your colors first to base your flowers and foliage off of. Cut the ends of the stems at a 45-degree angle. Then take out excess leaves and thorns for easy handling. Take a stem of foliage and put 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 types and colors and balance out as needed. Bind the top of the stems with string and ribbon. Cut the ends at the same length to let the bouquet stand on its own. Perfect!

Wrist Corsage or Boutonniere Set.

Styling corsages is an useful skill that helps you improve 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 prep 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. Bind 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.