Tools for Flower Arranging

Flowers

• Choose your flowers before choosing a container. Doing this helps you select the right vase or other holder based on the size and color of the flower selections. Remember, silk flower arrangements last for many years and are available in every variety, shape and color. They can be expensive. Fresh flowers only last for a few days or up to a week and require a waterproof container. The price is affected by the season, type of flower and availability. The blooms add a pleasing scent to the room. Remove any leaves that are below the water line and add a floral preservative to increase their longevity. Plastic flowers are the least inexpensive, but they don't always look as realistic as silk or fresh flowers.

Containers

• Use the correct size container for the flowers. A bud vase is perfect for a single rose or two or three flowers, but a wider or more substantial vase, basket or other container is necessary for full or tall floral arrangements. Traditional glass or crystal containers work well with most flower selections. If you select old-fashioned varieties of flowers, such as hydrangea, Queen Anne's lace or gladiolus, a country-looking vase may be appropriate. Flowers that are elegant, such as calla lilies, orchids or a single rose may look more appropriate in a sleek vase with a simple angular shape. You can also choose containers that coordinate with the color of the flowers. Although metal containers react with many floral preservatives, you can use a plastic liner to protect the floral arrangement. They are also useful in other containers, such as woven baskets that aren't waterproof. Old water pitchers, classic urns and antique teapots make charming containers for flowers.

Adhesives and Foams

• Select an adhesive to keep the flowers in position in your containers. This may be as simple as using double-faced tape, in a criss-cross pattern across the vase opening, or floral foam. Different types of floral foams hold water well and are useful with fresh flowers if you need more of a detailed arrangement.

Cutting Tool

• A sharp knife is effective in cutting the stems of fresh flowers. Sharp scissors or wire cutters work well on plastic or silk flowers. It is important to arrange the flowers at different heights so that they do not hide the other blooms. Use caution to avoid cutting the stems too short. You can always go back and cut them shorter if necessary.