How to Make a European Floral Arrangement

Make a Simple Dome Arrangement

• 1

  Plan ahead. Consider the location for the arrangement, the size (for example, a dining table centerpiece ought to be low enough so that people can see each other over it), colors to go with the room, the occasion (formal or informal), and preferences of the recipient or viewers. Incorporating someone's favorite flowers and colors in an arrangement personalizes it. Soak the floral foam in water with cut-flower food.

• 2

  Pick your own flowers or obtain florist blooms. Round flowers such as roses, daisies, sunflowers, and poppies work well for this. Select some greens and filler flowers (bunches of tiny flowers like St. Anne's lace or babies' breath).

• 3

  Choose a medium container in a neutral or harmonizing color. A round or soft-edged vase or pot looks good with the dome shape. Clean it well to protect the cut blooms from bacteria. Cut the floral foam to fit the container. A pin holder (frog) may be used to anchor it, if needed.

• 4

  Cut the stems at an angle. Cut one flowers 1 1/2 times the height of the container (12 inches tall for an 8-inch vase). Cut the others in graduated lengths to help make a rounded shape. Flowers at the outside edges will have the shortest stems.

• 5

  Starting at the center, press the stems into the foam. Space the largest blooms evenly, creating three circles of flowers, depending on the size of the container. Use smaller blossoms, greens, and filler flowers between the larger blooms. Check all sides. If necessary, cut some stems to achieve an even dome shape. Alternate colors and types of flowers so each quadrant of the arrangement matches. Place in a cool location and enjoy.