One of my 2013 New Year’s resolutions was to fill my home with fresh flowers on the regular. My aesthetic preference in arranging flowers leans towards the non-fussy, uncomplicated variety which is lucky because, as anyone who has purchased a dozen roses or other fancy bouquet may know, fresh blooms can cost. Since I like to indulge in simple luxuries like flowers, but don’t want to break the bank—I came up with some quick, easy tips for making floral arrangements on the cheap!
Tip 1: Visit your local grocery store
Most grocery stores have pre-made bouquets of mixed stems that can be purchased for just a few dollars. Usually filled with sturdy blooms, these bouquets are meant to hang tough for more than just a few days. Get even more bang for your buck by separating your store-bought bundle into multiple tiny arrangements. Divide your bouquet and group stems together that are alike in color, size or texture. If there is a standout bloom in your bunch, consider placing it in a vase by itself. Also, ditch that weird filler fern—it’s a surefire indicator of a pre-fab arrangement.
Tip 2: Take a second look
Carnations and baby’s breath have gotten a bad rap and don’t get as much play as they used to, but they are pretty inexpensive and with not much work can become a striking centerpiece. When bunched together by themselves, these flowers become less about the individual bloom and more about the impact of the bouquet as a whole. So, how about a mod arrangement and play on proportions with a full bundle of monochromatic carnations placed in a squat vase? Or a big handful of baby’s breath spilling out of a blue Mason jar. Not so bad anymore, eh?
Tip 3: Scout your yard
If you’ve already got a green thumb, chances are your backyard is scattered with fresh flowers and plants. Got ornamental grasses or ferns? Even some fresh herbs can be lovely. A grouping of various greens with different textures can make a stunning impact. Choose a few different colors, heights and sizes for the best result.
Tip 4: Find the right container
Just about anything purchased at the store or found in your yard will look great when put in the right vessel. You certainly don’t need a fancy vase. Save an interesting wine bottle from the recycling and scrub off the label. Visit your favorite thrift store to find a new-to-you kitschy fave. Even that chipped teacup could become the perfect home for a peony in bloom.
Tip 5: Shape it
An arrangement that’s all one height can look a little funny. Go for a shape that is balanced with your vase. You can arrange the flowers in your hand or right in the vase. Typically, tall blooms go in the center and the shorter ones towards the outside, but you don’t have to follow the rules. Don’t be afraid to adjust stem length (being sure to cut on the diagonal if you do!). Fill in holes or gaps with extra sprigs. To keep the shape, you can tie the bundle together with a bit of string or a rubber band. Hide it by wrapping a leaf around the outside.
Tip 6: Don’t forget your friends
A simple floral arrangement can be a beautiful gift. Whether you purchase it from the store, or assemble it from your yard, a few extra touches will make it standout. If you purchased from the store, cut off the cellophane wrapping. Soak a few paper towels in water and wrap around the ends of the stems. Using a piece of brown Kraft paper and some ribbon, wrap up your bouquet. You can also arrange your flowers in a container you don’t mind not seeing again. Tie a color-coordinating ribbon around the neck of the vase and you’re set!
Some DONT’S when making your next arrangement
- Don’t forget to freshen the water in your vase.
- Don’t aim for perfection! Loose and free-form is better than stiff and stuffy.
- Don’t pick wildflowers while on a hike in the woods. It’s illegal and you’d be destroying a natural resource.
- Don’t raid your neighbors yard. How would you feel if someone snipped your prized lily just as it was opening?
Frankie Schneckloth enjoys the simple things in life.
