Skip to Main Content

How to Make Floral Arrangements (Part 1)

Flower Ornaments For Any Occasion

In our previous blogs, we gave you a short history on floristry. Then we looked at the basics of floral arrangements, focusing on design and color. Now, we discuss 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 talk about styles used by florists for various occasions. The first part focuses on basic arrangements, like vase bouquets, corsages, and designs. We take you thru selecting flowers to making personalized designs. We will help you learn common floral arrangements for different needs. In part two, we learn how to create arrangements for specific occasions. From wedding decor to gift baskets, they are great for showing your creativity. Plus, nothing beats getting to help your customers with their floral needs! Read ahead if you want a formal program 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), and many more. Keep reading for detailed guides on basic flower arrangements. Unleash your artistic side and add 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, 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 effective water absorption and sturdier arrangements. Place the foliage and main flowers. Secure them in the floral foam and repeat 2-3 times as you wish. Place the accent flowers in. Turn the vase around as you put in the smaller flowers and secure them in the foam as well. Keep the arrangement steady in form and color. Awesome!

Hand-Tied Bouquet.

Hand-tied bouquets have always been a hit 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 flowers and delicate arrangement makes any bouquet precious for every recipient. To create that perfect hand-tied bunch, follow these simple steps. Choose and prepare your flowers and foliage. Start your arrangement by spreading 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 take out excess leaves and thorns for easy handling. Take a stem of foliage and set your main flower flush against it. Insert your accent flowers and angle them towards the center. Turn the arrangement and continue until all sides have accents. Add the other accents in according to their types and colors and balance out as needed. Tie the top of the stems with string and ribbon. Snip 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 children' prom night! Here's a step by step guide to creating corsages:.

  • Select and prepare 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 create 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.