Silk Floral Arrangements Can Be Expensive, But Not At Connie's House!
I love to decorate my home, and I am especially fond of floral arrangements. I love 'em all! Silk swags, grapevine wreaths, spring flowers in a cute little vase...
The one thing I don't care for is the sometimes expensive price tag that goes along with ready made arrangements.
My love for crafting eventually led me to take on the challenge of arranging flowers. I'm not a professional, but I have discovered some tips and tricks to creating an arrangement that looks nice, and well constructed so that it won't easily fall apart.
We all know I love to share my crafty how-to's, so let's get on with the business of creating a silk floral swag that will dazzle your friends and family.
So, let's think about that room that needs a little more pizzaz? Some added color would be great, but what to do? Here's a great little project that will not only bring a splash of color to your room, but also an afternoon of crafting pleasure!
You'll feel great when someone asks you...."Oh, how pretty! Where did you get that?"
Just smile and tell them....I made it myself!
The one thing I don't care for is the sometimes expensive price tag that goes along with ready made arrangements.
My love for crafting eventually led me to take on the challenge of arranging flowers. I'm not a professional, but I have discovered some tips and tricks to creating an arrangement that looks nice, and well constructed so that it won't easily fall apart.
We all know I love to share my crafty how-to's, so let's get on with the business of creating a silk floral swag that will dazzle your friends and family.
So, let's think about that room that needs a little more pizzaz? Some added color would be great, but what to do? Here's a great little project that will not only bring a splash of color to your room, but also an afternoon of crafting pleasure!
You'll feel great when someone asks you...."Oh, how pretty! Where did you get that?"
Just smile and tell them....I made it myself!
I was so excited when the kids came to tell me that I won Squidoo's new PURPLE STAR...
Just In Time For Mother's Day!
Thanks to everyone for voting for me... I'm glad you are enjoying the tutorial! I've always loved purple, and now it's become one of Clara's favorites too. She insisted that we have her hair done for this auspicious occasion!
If you want to know more about my cute little chicks, visit them at
www.conniescrafts4kids.com
Happy Mother's Day to me, Happy Mother's Day to me...
Errr; sorry; I just had to break into a little song and dance!
Now. let's get back to making those silk flower swags.
: )
The Components of a Silk Floral Swag
Table of Contents
- The Components of a Silk Floral Swag
- Use Contrasting Colors For a Striking Composition
- Think Like a Designer
- Use The Same Flowers In a Different Container For a Matching Centerpiece
- Basic Floral Tools
- Choose Your Favorite Wire Cutters
- The Eucalyptus Foundation
- Pull the Wire Tight
- Use Your Pliers....
- Add Floral Foam
- Hot Glue...Then Wire for Stability
- Now Comes the Fun!
- How To Use the Floral Tape
- Work Toward the Center
- Lengthening the Stem Allows You to Create a Larger Arrangement
- You're Almost There!
- The Flowers Are All In Place....
- Step-by-Step
- Once You Master Arranging With Silk Flowers.... You'll Want to Try Working With Fresh Flowers!
- More Floral Books For Your Library
- Floral Design Classes With Victoria
- Guest Book
Use Contrasting Colors For a Striking Composition
Think Like a Designer
You can create a beautifully arranged space by placing matching floral pieces throughout your room
Use The Same Flowers In a Different Container For a Matching Centerpiece
Did You Know?
I bought that cute little vase at the dollar store... including the lid!
Raffia Bows Accent a Simple Swag
You can make a swag as simple as eucalyptus with a raffia bow....
...or Sparkle and Shine With Some Glittering Fruit!
Brighten up your kitchen or dining area with some beautifully sparkling fruit!There's no limit to the ways you can dress up a simple eucalyptus swag!
Position Sparkling Fruit Amongst Your Flowers For Dazzling Beauty
Basic Floral Tools
- Wire Cutters
- Pliers
- Floral Wire (I usually use 22- 24 guage)
- Floral Tape (green or white, depending on your project)
- Hot Glue Gun & Sticks
- Floral Foam
Once you learn how to use the basic tools, you'll soon be creating great little arrangements for your entire house!Please Be Aware:
Floral Designing Can Be Addicting!
Choose a Pair of Wire Cutters That Fit Comfortably In Your Hand
...AND Inexpensive!
Choose Your Favorite Wire Cutters
Every floral designer needs her own set of wire cutters! Personally, I prefer a pair with rubber handles, and are about the same size as my hand...
When you are working with bigger bushes of flowers or greens, you will find that you need a larger set to cut those big stems at the base of the bush.
Here are several to choose from...
I like the Fuller 405, and the needle nose pliers...basic necessities for the busy floral designer!
Pro Art 8.25" Scissors
Pro Art 8.25" Scissors...Stainless st more...0 points
Needle-Nose Pliers/Wire Cutters
Needle-Nose Pliers/Wire Cutters. Extremely useful more...0 points
- 22-Guage Floral Wire
- My personal preference when it comes to wiring....I use 22-24 guage on nearly all my floral projects.
This is Called a "Paddle" of Wire
It's a simple way to keep your floral wire tangle free!
Time Management and Shopping
Time management has become a major factor in my life since I've moved to the mega-metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona.
Gone are the days of "just running down to the store for a minute!
In a city of 4,000,000 people, the trip to the store can turn into a 2-hour task!
I'm learning to appreciate the simplicity of online shopping, and the fact that it saves me from dealing with the sizzling temperatures of the desert.
Temperatures can soar to 114 degrees, or more!
That makes for some cranky shoppers, overheating vehicles, and a shopping trip turned sour.
So, I'll be sharing some of the great sites I've discovered for my crafty shopping. I'll share the links of the products I use and recommend...so you can spend more time crafting; and less time running out for basic supplies!
Gone are the days of "just running down to the store for a minute!
In a city of 4,000,000 people, the trip to the store can turn into a 2-hour task!
I'm learning to appreciate the simplicity of online shopping, and the fact that it saves me from dealing with the sizzling temperatures of the desert.
Temperatures can soar to 114 degrees, or more!
That makes for some cranky shoppers, overheating vehicles, and a shopping trip turned sour.
So, I'll be sharing some of the great sites I've discovered for my crafty shopping. I'll share the links of the products I use and recommend...so you can spend more time crafting; and less time running out for basic supplies!
- Silk Floral Cleaner
- Silk Flower 10 oz- quickly and easily removes dust and dirt from silk flowers and plants. Use on floral arrangements, dried flowers, artificial trees, garland and wreaths.
Just spray on-no wiping. Dries fast and has a pleasant fragrance. Keep away from children.
Now, Let's Get Started on Your Swag
Begin With Fresh Eucalyptus from Your Favorite Craft Store
Eucalyptus smells wonderful, is easy to work with and comes in a variety of colors...Be sure to choose carefully! If it's been sitting in the store too long, it will be dry and crumbly...fresh eucalyptus is pliable, has deep color and the leaves don't fall off when you pick up the package.
On the other end of the spectrum, if it's too wet; it will leave stains on the wall when you hang your design. Who knew there were so many details to consider when working with silk flowers?
As you can see, floral designing is much like life. There are innumerable nuggets of wisdom that are gained through experience, so mishaps can be avoided with just a little help from someone who has already been there; done that!
Preparing the Eucalyptus "Frame"
Eucalyptus is your foundation....build it strong!
Divide the bundle of eucalyptus into two equal parts, and wire it together using 24 guage floral wire... The Eucalyptus Foundation
Here's what it looks like once it's all wired together... Pull the Wire Tight
You want to pull the bundle together as tightly as you can, without breaking the wire! Use Your Pliers....
Use the pliers to tighten the wire....pull the wire tight as you turn it...Tuck the ends of the wire into the eucalyptus so they won't be poking you in the fingers while you continue with the arrangement!
Oops... I Forgot to Add the Hanger
This is the time to add your hanger to the back of the piece....I forgot to add it to mine before I completed the arrangement, but it will be much easier if you put it on NOW...instead of when you're finished!
Add Floral Foam
This is a matter of my personal preference...some designers simply add their flowers to the euc (prounounced "uke") frame...I prefer to add a piece of foam...I find that I can achieve better balance in my piece by having a little more foundation to build on...
To Foam, Or Not To Foam
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Hot Glue...Then Wire for Stability
Spread some hot glue on the bottom of the foam and lay it on the eucalptus frame...Once it's cool...you can secure the foam with more floral wire...
Tuck the ends of the wire into the foam...
Now Comes the Fun!
It's time to begin adding your flowers.Begin with a foundation of filler; you can see I have inserted the stems into the foam...
Place your stems like the hours on a clock face to achieve balance.
1:00, 3:00, 5:00
7:00, 9:00, 11:00
A Note For Beginners:
When I first began working with flowers, I arranged the flowers until they looked "right"... then I would go back and glue them in place. That really is a pain in the neck because you basically have to disassemble and re-assemble your design!
Since I now have some experience under my belt, I recommend you spend some time practicing designing before you begin to actually create your arrangements. My earliest arrangements lacked balance and proper scale.
Since I've learned to use the clock process, I spend more time actually designing and less time doing re-work!
How To Use the Floral Tape
It's Time to Add the Flowers
Again, thinking in terms of the clock face; begin to add your flowers...Simply insert the stems into the foam until the head of the flower is in position...
This is a Good Example of "Filler"
Lots of petals....plenty of "fluff"...it's like ground cover for your arrangement! Accent Pieces
Here's a piece that I would use as an accent piece...it's spiky and elongated...great texture...Use it in odd numbers...1, 3 or 5 of this piece gives your arrangement a more natural feeling.
Bend the Head of the Flower ....
The flowers will be laying flat when you insert them into the foam...Bend the head of the flower toward you so you will be able to see the face of the flower...
Like This....
So You See That Flower's Sweet Little Face!
Work Toward the Center
I've left the stems long for the first layers...now you begin to cut the stems shorter, as you move toward the center of the arrangment....Now you can begin to add another color of flowers...(using a different type of flower)
Lengthening the Stem Allows You to Create a Larger Arrangement
You're Almost There!
Now, it's getting really exciting because your arrangement is really taking shape!Now that you are at the center of the arrangement, it's time to change the size of the flowers you are adding...
I'm now adding a large, tawny color rose that has a red blush...a contrasting color that still coordinates with the burgundy flowers...I ended up using three of them in this particular arrangement...
Waste Not, Want Not
Yes, you can even use those leftover stems! The extra leaves help fill in those little spaces between your flowers... The Flowers Are All In Place....
You can keep adding flowers until your arrangement is as "full" as you like it to be...Now, wasn't that easy?
As you can see, the possiblities are endless...you can create a new swag for every season, gifts for special people...or even sell them for a little extra spending money!
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Once You Master Arranging With Silk Flowers.... You'll Want to Try Working With Fresh Flowers!
This video gives you a feel for the movement and flow that is part of the design process...It truly is an elegant little bouquet!
Use wet foam when you are working with live flowers:
More Floral Books For Your Library
Would You Like to See More Tutorials Like This One... Tell Me About It!
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I Hope You Had Fun!
Thanks for crafting with me again today... I hope you enjoyed yourself as much as I did!As you can see, there's no limit to the design possibilities.
So, go...gather supplies...and get set for an afternoon of floral designing that will give your home the style, personality and charm that is a reflection of the unique person that YOU are.
Enjoy... and let me know how your arrangements turn out!
Flowers Made Simple
Amazon Price: (as of 11/24/2009) 
How to Arrange Flowers for All Occasions
Amazon Price: (as of 11/24/2009)
How to Do Wreaths If You Think You Can't (How to Arrange Florals If You Think You Can't)
Amazon Price: $17.05 (as of 11/24/2009)
How To Arrange Florals If You Think You Can't: A Beginners Guide With Silks & Drieds
Amazon Price: (as of 11/24/2009)
Cemetery Arrangement
For our next project, I will show you how to make your own cemetery arrangements.
There is comfort in the time spent creating your own special designs as a lasting token of your love. The time spent arranging the favorite flowers of a loved one is time spent dwelling on precious memories. Time well spent, ending with a beautiful arrangement at the end of the day.
Cemetery Spikes (pk/12)
There is comfort in the time spent creating your own special designs as a lasting token of your love. The time spent arranging the favorite flowers of a loved one is time spent dwelling on precious memories. Time well spent, ending with a beautiful arrangement at the end of the day.
Cemetery Spikes (pk/12)
Plastic cemetery spikes make ideal holders for both fresh and artificial flower arrangements. Available in green and white. 10". Pack of 12.
Cemetery Spikes (pk/12)
Here's Another One of My Floral Designs... It's a Miniature Lamp in a Chicken Theme
I Was Delighted to Find Clair's Flowers at eBay
She offers very competitive pricing, quality products, and a wide selection of supplies
Roses
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Carnations
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byShe's a POWER SELLER, so you know she's dependable!
Filler Flowers
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byFruit & Veggies
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byFancy Flower Pens Offer More Design Options, and Functional Beauty For Your Home!
Connie Walcott (c) 1993-2009 All Rights Reserved
Now That You Know How To Make Your Swag, Drop By to Get Your Tools and Supplies:
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Crafter's Guide: Tools For Arranging Flowers
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I spend a lot of time crafting, so it's only natural that my house is filled with a trainload of tools and supplies. That's what happens when you are an artistic soul like myself! The fact that you are reading this lens tells me that you have a keen...
Learn More About My Crafty Website For Kids
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Connie's Crafts 4 Kids
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When your kids are bored and you need some help in a hurry, drop by my new website for some very crafty rescue measures! You will find ideas for projects, patterns and instructions, as well as some very crafty gear! My sites are always kid friendly,...
Crafty Tips From Clara
Connie Walcott (c) 1993-2009 All Rights Reserved
I love to use Squidoo for expressing my love for all things crafty, spiritual and family friendly... I created this toolbar to reduce the Squidoo learning curve for newbies. When you use the toolbar, you can spend more time writing about the things that fan the flames of your passion!
Connie's Crafts 4 Kids Blog
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byPainted pups are an example of the craft samples I create for the kids at your house!
Connie Walcott (c) 1993-2009 All Rights Reserved
Floral Design Classes With Victoria
Meet My Friend, Victoria Cabot... A Professional Designer
- Floral Design Classes With Victoria
- Learn to create your own beautiful silk floral arrangements with a little help from professional floral designer, Victoria Cabot. Victoria shares her design secrets so you can create like a pro!
- Victoria's Blog
- Remember To Stop & Smell The Roses!
Guest Book
submit
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Reply
- gods_grace_notes gods_grace_notes May 12, 2009 @ 11:51 am
- That's a great point! This swag is made with fresh eucalyptus, but "uke" is also available in silk. Perfect for those who DO suffer from allergies!
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Reply
- mukunda22 mukunda22 May 11, 2009 @ 6:30 pm
- This silk flower arrangement idea is excellent for people who love flowers but are allergic to them!! This way, they can still In-Joy the beauty and not suffer!!
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Reply
- BigGirlBlue BigGirlBlue May 10, 2009 @ 5:59 pm
- Congratulations on the purple star!
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Reply
- MiaBellezza MiaBellezza May 10, 2009 @ 7:44 am
- Congratulations on your purple star! I like the step by steps instructions for the Floral Swag! 5*
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Reply
- Evelyn_Saenz Evelyn_Saenz May 9, 2009 @ 7:17 pm
- Congratulations on the well-deserved purple star!
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Reply
- CoolFoto CoolFoto May 9, 2009 @ 8:33 am
- Congrats on your Purple Star! 5*
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Reply
- Susan52 Susan52 May 8, 2009 @ 4:34 pm
- Wow, very informative and very pretty! Congratulations on the purple star!
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Reply
- monarch13 monarch13 May 8, 2009 @ 1:33 pm
- Thank you! Great idea. Congrats on your purple star!
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Reply
- kab kab Apr 20, 2009 @ 11:12 am
- The Giant Squid Greeters are kicking off a fun team challenge. You are hereby formally invited to join my team: Kab's Fab Squid Squad. I think you'd be a great addition to the Squid Squad.
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Reply
- amandascloset0 amandascloset0 Nov 26, 2008 @ 5:24 pm
- An other wonderful les! 5 stars
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Reply
- Connies-Craftaholics-Club Connies-Craftaholics-Club Nov 3, 2008 @ 12:59 pm
- Ya made me LOL, coz I KNOW you are not an idiot!
Anybody who is smart enough to join Squidoo is a genious in my book,
Thanks for visiting!
Connie
[in reply to Wysiwigs]
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Reply
- Wysiwigs Wysiwigs Oct 31, 2008 @ 4:17 am
- Great lens ~ I just LOVE idiot-friendly directions!! (Mostly 'cause I can follow 'em :o) 5*
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Lensmaster gods_grace_notes has been a member since October 24 2006, has rated 855 lenses, favorited 446, and has created 95 lenses from scratch. God's Grace Notes donates their royalties to Squidoo Charity Fund, Modest Needs, and A Day of Hope. This member's top-ranked page is "Toys, Games & Crafts Teach Kids About the Bible". See all my lenses
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