Materials:
Flowers:
Calla lilies: Choose calla lilies in white, ivory, or pale pink for an elegant look. Opt for various bloom stages, with some fully open and others closed for visual interest.
Banksia: These unique Australian wildflowers feature woody cones surrounded by spiky yellow or orange flower spikes. They add a textural contrast and a touch of the exotic.
Other complementary flowers (to create the S-shape):
Consider using:
Roses (pink, cream, or white) for a romantic touch.
Freesia (white, yellow, or orange) for a delicate and fragrant addition.
Orchids (white, lavender, or pink) for a touch of luxury.
Wax-flowers (white, pink, or purple) for long-lasting filler flowers with small blooms.
- Foliage:
- Use a variety of leafy greens to create a base and define the S-shape. Consider:
- Italian ruscus: Features long, slender, dark green leaves that add a sculptural element.
- Pittosporum: Offers glossy green leaves that provide a lush backdrop.
- Leatherleaf fern: Adds a delicate, trailing texture.
- Floral container: Select a vase that is tall enough to accommodate the S-shape and complements the overall style of the arrangement. A clear glass vase or a ceramic vase in a neutral colour can work well.
- Floral shears
- Floral tape (optional)
- Floral foam (optional)
Tips:
- Prepare your flowers and foliage: Cut the stems of your flowers and greenery at an angle with sharp floral shears. Remove any leaves that will fall below the water line in the vase.
- Create a base (optional): If you are using floral foam for stability, soak it in water and cut it to fit snugly inside the vase. Push the stems of your greenery into the floral foam, creating a loose S-shape within the vase.
- Build the S-shape: Start with your calla lilies, placing them strategically to define the curves of the S. Arrange some facing outwards and others angled inwards for depth.
- Incorporate the banksia: Add the banksia strategically, using their spiky texture to accentuate the curves of the S and add a touch of the unexpected.
- Fill in the gaps: Use the roses, freesia, orchids, or wax-flowers to fill in any gaps and create a fuller arrangement. Play with colour and texture to create a visually interesting composition.
- Secure the arrangement (optional): If your flowers seem loose, you can use floral tape to secure the stems discreetly at the base of the vase.
- Adjust and refine: Take a step back and refine the arrangement. Make sure the S-shape is balanced and all the flowers are contributing to the overall design.
Additional tips:
- Consider the weight distribution of the flowers. Place heavier blooms lower in the arrangement and lighter blooms higher up to maintain stability.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different flower combinations and textures to create a unique S-shaped arrangement.
- If you're not using floral foam, use a grid technique to create structure and support the S-shape. Insert a floral grid into the vase and weave the stems of your flowers and greenery through the grid to create the desired form.
