Choose
from these basic flower designs to create your first stunning masterpiece
You
have studied the basic design rules of flower arranging and are now
familiar with the terms line, mass, and line-mass. Now what should you
do? It's time to take this knowledge and put it to work!
The theme of your
floral arrangement is where it all begins - whether it's to celebrate
the season or for a holiday party or special event. But, from there,
it is up to you to make the plant and container selections.
Singles
Single buds or blooms can be arranged in a multitude of ways. Group
bud vases with low bowls of floating single flowers to create a unified
table arrangement. Add floating candles in a separate bowl for special
effect. Mix and match colors or use complementary hues. Even one large
flower floating in an appropriately-sized bowl can be beautiful.
Domed
A domed arrangement falls into the "mass" category; it is
usually rounded or oval. Start with the tallest point in the center
and work downward on all sides. Domes work well if the table is situated
in the middle of a room so it can be enjoyed from all sides.
Triangular
These can be viewed from front and back, and will have a defined triangular
shape. The horizontal height should be the same as the vertical height
for a traditional approach. The largest flowers should be in the middle
and spiral downward. Filler flowers and greenery, along with branches
will define the sloping sides.
Vertical or Horizontal
Either of these will place emphasis on simplistic lines that go either
up or sideways. A vertical arrangement may be more flexible in that
softer ivies can be draped to each side. Focal flowers should be placed
in the center of a horizontal piece and at the base of a vertical one.
Shallow containers are recommended.
Crescent
Just like a half-moon, the crescent is a fascinating style. The challenge
lies in finding the right plants for the curvature. The focal flowers
should be situated low and near the base. The longest stem will shoot
upward from the back or side while the shorter curve will come from
the front or side to create a unified half-moon shape. Filler flowers
can drape over the container in opposing directions as well.
"S"
Curve
Also known as Lazy "S" and Hogarth's Curve. This is the ultimate
in a rhythm arrangement. Branches should be bent slightly to create
one upward curve while a second branch is added in an opposite direction
to form the sweeping "S" shape. Focal flowers can expand along
the sweeping lines rather than being bunched up at the base. Filler
greenery and blossoms can be arranged to suit your taste. This is a
very dramatic and challenging style.
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