Here on Sweetwater Curve I always have a project going! I use creative ways to incorporate thrift and consignment store finds into my life. All it takes is a little creativity and an “I can do that” attitude. Come back often to check out my latest projects….then get going! You can do it too!

Friday, June 3, 2011

Flower Arranging Sweetwater Style!

Anyone can go out in the garden and cut a few flowers to plop in a vase.  It only takes a few minutes more and some basic supplies to create really beautiful arrangements.

Today’s Project

This morning I helped my friend create the table arrangements for her First Grade Classroom “Author’s Tea Celebration”. We were a little worried since the cool wet spring this year means that there are few flowers blooming even though it is June 3rd.  And of course our budget was limited to $0 so buying anything was out of the question!  But the 5 arrangements were absolutely beautiful as you can see.  We used Hosta leaves, Lady’s Mantle, sprays of bridal wreath and bayberry, a daisy or two and a couple of Iris in each display.  How festive the tables looked for the budding authors and their parents as they celebrated the end of the school year.  
Time: 30 minutes not including the walk through the garden this morning
Cost: $2.00 for 2 blocks of floral foam 
Rewards: A solitary walk in the garden at dawn, laughter with a friend as we scavenged blossoms from the school parking lot and a shared sense of accomplishment.

Flower arranging is not rocket science! Don’t worry about whether you are following some sort of recipe for the perfect arrangement.  Use your sense of color and balance as you work.  There are a few basic rules and some tips that I will share in the next post.  In the meantime…read the list below and start gathering your supplies so you will be ready!
That’s all for right now!
Here is an article from Rebecca Coles with some tips that you might find useful.




Stuff to keep on hand!

Let’s take a peek into what my friends  call “Mary’s Store”….my shelves in the basement that are home to my supply of items that make it easy to create whenever the mood strikes.  

Stock up on these basics for floral arrangements:

  • Interesting and Beautiful Containers
    •  thrift stores and garage sales are a great source
    • start collections that you love-my favorites are Haeger pottery and old hotel silverplate
    • less “special” containers are great for making a quick arrangement to give as a little gift for friends.
  • Floral Foam!
    • I buy packages of 4 blocks for $4.99 at Michaels
  • Spanish Moss
    • I keep a package from the craft store  and use it to hide any gaps around the base of the arrangement
  •  Fabric Ribbon
    • never throw a piece of ribbon away….you will always find a way to use it….a little bow makes an arrangement into a special gift.
  • Florist Wire on a paddle


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