September 17, 2010

A Bouquet for Every Season

I needed something colorful and full to fill this space on my living room shelf. I wanted to make it impressive but be able to use it all year round. So I made a bouquet that can be switched up for just a few dollars every season.

I had this large vase that I received with birthday flowers a few years ago that I used. But any tall vase with a large opening will work.

We sell a few in the shop if you need one....
I used floral tape ( you can also purchase this in our store) to make a tight grid so that when we put the flowers in the vase they stay where you place them.
For the base arrangement I used 3 large green hydrangeas and a bunch of snake grass ( you could use any kind of stick you prefer)
I pulled the vase to the edge of the table and then measure the hydrangea against the vase. Once its at the height that I want I cut it off and insert at an angle to help my stems build a grid in the vase.

Add the 2nd on an angle on the opposite side of the vase.
The third should be a little taller and sit in the middle top of the vase. Your arrangement will be one sided so don't worry about the back.

If you want it to be for a table and need to be an all around bouquet add another hydrangea on the backside.
Now measure your snake grass to and cut to that its the length you want it on the arrangement. The snake grass should be 2/3 taller then the length of the vase.
Insert on an angle.
Start with 3 in a triangle shape and then continue adding all at varied heights.
Now we have the base arrangement.

For each season we will start with this base and add to it to create the coordinating look we want!
Next pick a focal flower. I picked orange zinnias. For this arrangement I would suggest investing in quality flowers that look and feel like the real deal! You can purchase these at Tai Pan, Micheals, or Hobby Lobby.
Now remember to group your flowers. For the focal group 2 close together but at different depths. This will add dimension and a eye catching focal point.
If you pick a flower that has another small bud on the same set be sure to separate them and use that smaller bud! Don't let it get lost in the arrangement.

Next we are going to add 3 tall flowers. I chose light orange parrot tulips. I wanted the color to be a softer hugh then the zinnias the different shades help create a more natural and interesting look. When everything is too matchy it looks fake and unrealistic!
Put 2 of the tulips on the sides of the arrangement. Insert them at the very top of arrangement and vary the height. The last tulip should be inserted in the top of the arrangement but facing the front so the arrangement is more 3-D.

Next I found these really interesting little brown balls. There are many on a stem so you can cut the stem apart and insert them around the arrangement to fill in wholes and add some hang to the arrangement.
I added a few silk leaves and TA DA!
It filled in the space on the shelf brilliantly! And when Christmas comes I can switch out the orange and add some Red!


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