Arrangement Styles

Style Name Description Typical Shape Best For
Round Bouquet Symmetrical, dome-shaped design Circular Weddings, gifts
Cascade/Waterfall Flowing downward, trailing shape Inverted teardrop Bridal bouquets, formals
Linear/Modern Vertical or horizontal minimalist Line or triangle Contemporary decor
Garden-Style Loose, natural arrangement Asymmetrical Rustic events, home decor
Topiary Sculpted, ball-like form Geometric Formal settings, events
Ikebana Japanese minimalism, symbolism Minimalist/structural Meditation, decor, artful design

Flower Types by Role

Role Purpose Flower Examples
Focal Flowers Grab attention, central feature Roses, lilies, sunflowers, peonies
Secondary Flowers Complement focal blooms Carnations, daisies, mums
Filler Flowers Add volume and texture Baby’s breath, statice, solidago
Line Flowers Add height or direction Gladiolus, snapdragons, delphinium
Greenery/Foliage Add structure and contrast Eucalyptus, ferns, ruscus, ivy

Colour Theory in Arranging

Scheme Visual Impact Examples Best Used For
Monochromatic Elegant and harmonious Shades of pink or white Weddings, minimalist settings
Analogous Soft and cohesive Orange, red, yellow Seasonal or garden themes
Complementary Bold and high contrast Purple + yellow, red + green Dramatic centerpieces
Triadic Balanced, vibrant Red, blue, yellow Parties, playful decor
Split-Complementary Dynamic but softer than full complement Blue + orange-red + yellow-orange Stylish modern designs

Flower Longevity Guide

Flower Type Vase Life Water Needs Conditioning Tips
Roses 7–10 days High Remove thorns, recut stems underwater
Tulips 5–7 days Medium Keep cool, support upright in vase
Carnations 10–14 days Medium Change water every 2 days
Lilies 8–12 days High Remove pollen to avoid staining
Chrysanthemums 10–14 days Low to medium Very hardy, easy to condition
Hydrangeas 4–7 days Very high Submerge heads to rehydrate

Vase Types & Uses

Vase Style Best For Notes
Cylinder Vase Long stems, modern designs Good for tall line flowers
Cube Vase Compact arrangements Low arrangements, coffee tables
Bud Vase Single blooms, minimalist decor Group for impact
Urn Vase Traditional large arrangements Needs flower foam for support
Trumpet Vase Cascading or top-heavy styles Ideal for events
Mason Jar Rustic, casual settings Pair with twine or lace for charm

Composition Tips

Tip Why It Works
Odd Number of Flowers Feels natural and visually balanced
Start with Foliage Creates a supportive base for flowers
Vary Heights and Angles Adds dimension and interest
Group by Flower Type Creates rhythm and emphasis
Rotate the Vase While Building Ensures 360° visual appeal
Use a Grid or Frog Helps control flower placement in wide vases

Common Tools

Tool Purpose Price Range
Floral Scissors Clean cuts on stems $10–$30
Stem Strippers Remove leaves/thorns easily $5–$15
Floral Tape Bind stems in corsages or bouquets $3–$10
Floral Foam Structure and hydration in foam-based work $5–$20
Wire & Picks Reinforce or add decorative elements $5–$15
Flower Food Extend vase life $5–$10

Beginner Arrangement Projects

Project Name Style Used Tools Needed Time Estimate
Hand-Tied Bouquet Round Tape, scissors, ribbon 30–45 min
Teacup Posy Garden-style Small vase, foam, snips 20–30 min
Seasonal Centerpiece Symmetrical triangle Foam, base container 1 hour
Single Stem Display Minimalist Bud vase, floral food 10 min
Event Garland Linear Greenery, twine, wire 1–2 hours

Flower Arranging FAQs

Question Answer
Should I use warm or cold water? Use lukewarm water unless otherwise noted
How often should I change the water? Every 2–3 days for freshness
Can I mix fresh and dried flowers? Yes, but be cautious with water if using fresh
How do I revive drooping stems? Recut and place in warm water for 30 minutes
Can I store flowers before arranging? Yes—keep them cool and in water until use