Flower Arranging Basics
Would you like to learn the basics of making a fresh flower arrangement? It’s very easy, and you only need a few tips and supplies to get started.
First, you’ll need a container. Something the size of a cereal bowl is about right.
Next, you’ll need the key construction element: Oasis floral foam This green foam is sold in blocks at any craft store. DO notice the type of foam you’re purchasing. Oasis is designed to absorb water and you can press your thumbprint into it. (Thre’s also a green foam used for arranging artificial flowers. It looks more like Styrofoam and has no give.)
Cut the Oasis to fit your container. Very important: it should stick up above the top of the container about 1″ or so. Completely submerge the foam in water, until it’s saturated. (15 minutes or so.)
Secure the foam in the container. You may want to add some rocks around the edges to add support and weight. Or purchase some floral tape and stretch it across in both directions.
Select flowers and greenery with stems that are somewhat sturdy, and with lengths that are suitable for your anticipated size. My Christmas arrangement is a simple triangle shape and that’s what I’ll show you how to do. (Mine is mostly greenery, with a few berry clusters, but I’m giving instructions for a more traditional flower-filled arrangement.)
First, establish the height and width of the arrangement with greenery. This is where the Oasis really comes in handy. It allows you to insert stems horizontally. Easy!
Next, add foliage at approximately 10:00 and 2:00 positions. Let them lean forward and/or back, rather than being perfectly aligned. Add a few short pieces at bottom center, partially covering the foam. (Yours will be fuller. I’ve kept my sketch simple.)
Continue in this manner, adding greenery. Add the first few flowers, in the approximate positions as the first three pieces of greenery.
Continue filling in with flowers and additional greenery. It often works well to place larger flowers near the bottom and smaller ones near the top. If you have small filler flowers, such as Baby’s Breath, save them for last.
Avoid having things too “perfect.” Let it look natural, with some pieces closer to horizontal, others more vertical, some leaning forward, some back, etc
Water daily and enjoy!
Ellen Lindner
