Flowers: How to Create a Mass Arrangement

A burst of color is what a mass arrangement is all about - and it is very easy to create!

A sense of color and texture will help when putting a mass arrangement together. It is more about the group and how the mix of flowers and foliage work together than when working with line arrangements. While there are focal points that emphasize the larger flowers, each piece combines to make a pleasing arrangement.

Mass arrangements can be any shape. They can be domed, oval, triangular, or any style that fits the container and the surroundings. Mass flowers can work in the center of a room or against a wall.

Typically, a focal flower is selected for strong color and size. Two or more additional flower types of lesser size, but complementary in hue, will take secondary stage. Filler greenery can be of one or two types and is used to provide depth and hide bare spots.

The focal flowers at the top should face upward in a domed centerpiece while the secondary flowers will face in a variety of directions. As mass arrangements are considered "traditional" in style, the majority of them are symmetrical, meaning the design is the same on both or all sides.

Depth is achieved through placement of filler greenery and smaller flowers at varying points within the arrangement; some will be set deeper into the centerpiece while others may protrude. Some of the greenery should also flow over the sides of the container.

Good examples of mass flowers include: zinnias, roses, daisies, and violets.

Floral foam or chicken wire can be used to anchor mass arrangements. Many people find that foam is a little trickier and that some stems may be lost in the process; wet foam is recommended.

Flower colors can be warm (blues and greens, for instance) or cool reds, yellows, and oranges. You can select a range of three yellow hues for an interesting monotone effect or a range of fiery oranges with yellow accents.

Begin by creating the highest point of the centerpiece and work downward. Be sure to include shorter stems that will be somewhat hidden for depth. Step back often and inspect the work in progress. This will help keep the arrangement from becoming too crowded or off-center. You want the eye to flow from one smooth line to another and eventually lead to the focal flowers.