If you want to save costs on florists, or just expand your creativity and provide a spot of beauty in your home, learning to create your own flower arrangements is a wonderful idea. There are three main considerations that need to be considered when getting into the craft of flower arranging. They are; organization, purpose, and where to get fresh ideas. After reading this article you should have a starting point for making flower arranging work for you.

As with any craft, flower arranging takes a little thought and organization. Even from the simplest arrangement of popping a few wild flowers in a jar of water it pays to have everything you need at hand. Depending on how far you want to take your flower arranging hobby there are some basics you will need.

Florist wire – for shaping and holding

Florist blocks – for holding flowers, branches etc and keeping them moist

A good sharp pair of scissors or a knife

A variety of containers

Florist papers – if you are going to be giving your arrangements away as gifts (or selling)

Ribbon for tying – as above

A collection of vases, baskets and other containers for display

A collection of bits and pieces; e.g. driftwood, pine cones, twigs, dried reeds, pebbles.

When it comes to making your actual arrangement you need to be organized too. While it is great to do your own thing and use your natural eye to create a beautiful arrangement, it can be helpful as a beginner to stick to traditional types of arrangements. The most basic of these are dome shaped, pyramid, horizontal, vertical, oval and T-shaped. Why it is helpful to use these is you can easily identify your focal point. A flower arrangement is essentially an artwork and as in a painting it needs a focal point. Organize your flowers and accessories too by color. Learn about complimentary color, split complementary and harmonious colors to help you in your choices.

Whenever you begin a flower arrangements consider its purpose. Obviously the idea is to create something that looks good, but think about what you want from it. Are you creating a Christmas centerpiece that you may want to use again next year? Are you creating a small bouquet for a flower girl? Or perhaps flowers for a funeral? Wanting to add warmth to the living room, or brighten up a kitchen? All these things will have an effect on what flowers you choose and what accessories you will need.

As you begin your adventures in flower arranging always be on the look out for new ideas. There is a wealth of both written and visual information online and in magazines. Get to know your local florists and work with them if you can. You might even consider taking a course in flower arranging.

If you don’t already, start growing your own flowers, ferns and other greenery. Learning how to dry flowers is a great idea too. Start collecting what you need, especially containers and ideas and let your creativity loose. The art of flower arranging can be a long and satisfying hobby, and can even make you money.

Jonathan Pitts

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