Flowers to WearCompiled by:Mrs. Sheffield

Introduction

Modern designs come from many traditions

Ancient Grecian garlands and head chaplets

Polynesian floral leis Georgian period

formal gown accents Victorian-era hand-

held tussie-mussies

Introduction (cont.)

Infinite number of design patterns Worn head to toe Many special occasions associated

with wearing flowers:oWeddings, proms, homecomings,

Mother’s Day

Corsages Worn by women on special occasions

o Weddings, proms, other formal and semiformal events

Popular gift during holidayso Mother’s Day & Easter

Sets the wearer apart

Corsages (cont.) Show appreciation and distinguish

wearer Worn on shoulder or wrist Smaller corsages worn in hair, at the

waist, or pinned on an evening purse Style, fabric of the dress, current

fashion trends, occasion, and personal preference all dictate type of corsage preferred

Boutonnieres Floral piece worn by a man Generally worn on lapel of a formal jacket

or less formal suit coat Most often worn on left lapel in or near

buttonholeo Hence the name “boutonniere”

Original purpose of buttonhole was to fasten the top button on the opposite lapel to shield neck from wind and protect body from coldo Became an ideal flower holder

Boutonnieres (cont.) Weddings, proms, banquets, other formal

events Special holiday or sentimental occasions

o Father’s Day, anniversary, birthday Single flower or small cluster of flowers

Other Floral Accents Can be worn in hair, attached to hat,

pinned to purse, worn as a lei, worn on the gowno Add beauty, perfume, accent

Special holders made throughout time to hold flowers and keep them fresh

Bosom bottleso Specially made holderso Keep flowers fresh when worn at

décolletage of a gown

Other Floral Accents (cont.)

Armbands: need to remain lightweight and designed with appropriate shape, size, and style for wearing around the upper arm

Pocket square: worn as alternative to boutonniereo Placed in pocket of suit coat instead of

on lapel

5th per. 4/20

Guidelines of Design Many principles followed in

arrangements in vases applied to corsages, boutonnieres, headwreaths and other floral pieces

Additional guidelines necessary for floral arrangements to be worn (personal flowers/body flowers)

Theme and Style Color and style of gown, suit, hat, purse,

or hair to which flowers will be attached is important in determining style and color of floral piece

Occasion or event must also be considered

Knowledge of environment helps select partso Formal black-tie dinner-dance different than

luncheon honoring volunteers at a hospital

Theme and Style (cont.)

“Parts”: flowers, foliage, ribbon, other accessory fillerso Must be harmonious in color, texture, and styleo Flowers and foliage must blend togethero Ribbon and fabric materials should

complement flowers Textures, colors, patterns of ribbon should

be considered when adding loops or bows to corsageso Delicate lace ribbon suggests different texture

and style than shimmering metallic gold or silver ribbon

2nd & 3rd per. 4/20

Theme and Style (cont.)

Filler accessories such as jewels, pearls, hearts, and other tiny novelties, when used, should be in harmony with flowers and fit style

Size and Shape Size of completed design should be in

proportion to person wearing it Especially true with small children or petite

women who can be smothered and frustrated by large floral pieces

Consider sizes and amounts of flowers, foliage, and accessories of corsage

All tangible parts must be in proportion to one anothero Corsage with too much ribbon, netting, or other

accessories does not allow flowers and foliage to be seen

Size and Shape (cont.) Sizes of corsages vary with trends

and styleso Not always small/compact

Consider where it will be worn on the bodyo Example: hair style determines size of

hair piece Become a nuisance when wrong

shape

Mechanics and Balance

Should be designed securely Well constructed to retain original

shape throughout wearo Nothing should fall out of the design

When flower petals shed or parts drop off all together, it’s embarrassing for the wearer as well as designer and gift giver

Mechanics and Balance (cont.)

Must be lightweight and easy to wear Heavy corsages put a strain on

clothing Bulky corsage results in discomfort

and self-consciousness Heavy wrist corsages undesirable,

burden to wear Minimum of stems, wires, tape, and

other construction materials keep the design less weighty

Mechanics and Balance (cont.)

Visual and physical balance important Choose asymmetrical or symmetrical

before construction For stability, heaviest portion should

be at the point where stems are physically bound togethero Also point of attachment to wristlet or

barrette, or wherever the pins hold floral piece to clothing

5th per. 4/22

Focal Area Center of interest Draws attention, provides visual and

physical area where all lines converge, like arrangements

Created in various ways Larger or more unique flower easily

creates focal point Color also used for emphasis

Focal Area (cont.) Placed at center of gravity Never place focal point at design

edgesoResults in lopsided design (visually

and physically)

2nd per. 4/22

Preparation of Materials

Fresh flowers / foliage must be conditioned, fully hydrated, and made ready to go into design

Cut flowers short and wire and tape, or ready to glue into design

Make accessories such as ribbon loops, bows, and tulle fans

Makes you more efficient when constructing

Conditioning Conditioning: technique that allows

flowers and foliage to fully hydrate with water and preservative before using in designs

Most newly cut flowers absorb maximum amount of preservative solution in 1-2 hourso Some need extended conditioning

overnight

Conditioning (cont.) Fully firm flowers/leaves hold up

better in corsages and boutonnieres and other designs with no water supply

Important to condition blossoms/leaves harvested from blooming and green potted plants

Do not use at the last minuteo Give time to fully hydrate before use

3rd per. 4/22

Wiring and Taping Replaces most of natural stems If entire stem left on, would be too

bulky/heavy Wire allows more freedom in design

o Easier to maneuver stems and keep flowers in position while worn

Wire strengthens and also provides new stems

Gluing Not every addition to a floral piece

must be wired and taped in Many floral adhesives and low-

temperature glues available for adding lightweight flowers, leaves, accents of ribbon, and other accessories

Saves time and efforto Must be glued firmly onto solid structure

(secure bow foundation, firm tulle base, foliage “bed” structure

Accessories Ribbon loops, bows, netting tufts,

jewels, other novelties Enhance theme Create unified design Not required, some look better

without extras

Accessories Main purpose – accent and give

importance to flowers Keep entire design lightweight,

choose extras that are not heavy

Wiring & Taping Techniques

Wiring & Taping Introduction

Several techniques used in corsage work Method used depends on shape of flower

head or cluster of flowers Thickness or gauge of wire used

determined by weight of flower head and where in design it will be placed

Large/heavy flowers closer to binding area require thicker wires

Small, delicate flowers require thinner wire

Wiring & Taping (cont.) Most useful wire gauges are medium

to fine #22, #24, #26, and #28 most

common gauges for corsage work Use lightest possible to do the job Trim out excess wire during

construction to keep pieces lightweight and stems less bulky

Wiring & Taping (cont.) After individual pieces wired, taped

for added security Floral tape (aka green tape and stem

wrap): used to hide wire and conceal mechanicso Paraffin-coated paper that clings to itself

when stretched Available in variety of hues and other

colors Choose floral tape similar to color of

natural stem color or occasionally to match floret

5th per. 4/24

Pierce Wiring Most common method for roses,

carnations, other similarly shaped flowers with rounded head and visible calyx

Straight wire is pierced/poked through stem

2nd per. 4/24

Rose & Carnation Petals

Individual rose petals may be used to form tiny rose buds for accents and contrast

Carnation petals used to make smaller flowerso New stems made using wire and tape

for both

Rose & Carnation Petals (cont.)

Feathering: process of splitting a carnation apart

Feathering large, standard carnations takes time and efforto Allows for more versatility in designo Beneficial if miniature carnations needed and

not availableo Secure petals with tape, wrap wire around new

“calyx” and tape like normal

Hook Wiring Usually used for chrysanthemums,

asters, daisies, gerberas, and other flowers with flattened heads lacking a visible calyx

Hook or shepherd’s crook formed on one end of a wire

Straight end poked into center of the disc portion of the flower head

Pull downward through the top of the floreto Hook will catch itself inside flower to help

support it and strengthen the stem

Hairpin Wiring Similar to hook-wiring Uses fine wire to support fragile and tiny

florets that cannot be wired with any other method

Straight wire shaped into a U-shape, like a hairpin

Both ends of U-shaped, fine wire inserted into top center of floret to support and make new stem

Also placed around Alstroemeria floret for gentle support

Hairpin Wiring (cont.) Allows more versatility Highly efficient in wiring other plant

materialso Example: place around main stem

portion of compound leaf (Leatherleaf) or placed through little stems of hypericum berry cluster

Method also used for flat-headed, delicate orchids

Insertion Wiring Similar to hook, except no hook

required Also similar to pierce, except no wire

pokes all the way out the other stem Straight end of wire lined up parallel

to stem and inserted directly into underside of flower

Used for single composite blossomso Dahlias, gerberas, zinnias, ranunculus

blossoms

Insertion Wiring (cont.) Used to strengthen many types of

flowers Efficient in giving the flower head

support and lengthening the stem

Wrap-Around Wiring Also known as “clutch wiring” because

newly formed cluster looks like miniature “clutch” bridal bouquet

Used for filler flowers and small clusters of tiny mass flowers

Group delicate stems and petite flowers together quickly for use in designs

Wire wrapped around all the tiny stems to secure them together and form a new single cluster

Cross-Wiring Also called “cross-pierce wiring” Uses two wires that are inserted into the

stem just below the flower Generally, one wire medium gauge (#24)

and offers support for flower and stem Second wire poked into stem

perpendicular to first wireo Can be same gauge or finer to keep

moistened cotton or tissue in place

5th per. 4/27

Cross-Wiring (cont.) Cross-wiring with moistened cotton on stem

end recommended for many types of orchids, lilies, and gardenias

When cross-wiring lilies, remove pollen-covered anthers to prevent staining

Gardenias are fragile and easily bruisedo Keep your hands wet

When wiring, leave protective collar on gardeniaso Keeps flowers positioned and protects petalso Use finer gauge wire

Manufactured Stems Flower stem thickness and position of

flower (in corsage / floral piece) will determine best method of wiring

“Stems” invented to save time and effort Example: stephanotis stems manufactured

specifically to provide stem and keep stephanotis flowers from wilting

Before using stephanotis, condition them in cool water to firm them up

2nd per. 4/273rd per. 4/27

Manufactured Stems (cont.)

Corsage pins / jewel pins can be added down the throat of stephanotis florets to help support and add color/sparkle to flower and design

Stich-Wiring Used to lengthen stems and provide

support to individual leaves of camellia, ivy, salal, and other broad-leaf foliage

Similar to making a stich with a needle and thread, but instead fine wire is used

Accessorizing Designs

Accessorizing Designs Introduction

Corsages, boutonnieres, and other floral pieces to wear often rely on accessories to enhance theme and create unified design

Ribbon, jewels, or shiny wire used Flowers/designs can be sprayed with

colorful tints and shimmering glitter Main purpose is to accent flowers, not

overwhelm

Ribbon Multi-looped bows, ribbon loops popular Size of bow or loops determined by

design style, where it will be worn, preferred construction techniques, and popular trends

Large bow in corsage can be overpowering

multi-looped bow creates foundation for construction if flowers are glued/taped in

Ribbon (cont.) Ribbon loops accent flowers and add

color and texture throughout entire design

Unifies design Loops and ribbon flags made in

multiple ways

Netting and Tulle Provides background Creates fullness without adding

weight Sold on small bolts, usually 6” wide Available in variety of colors,

patterns, textures, and styles

Netting and Tulle (cont.)

Choose ones that are not scratchy and stiff for corsages

Can cut into sections, forming fans, butterflies, or tufts

Several methods used to make net background

Smoother appearance: fold netting pieces to form tuft without cut edges

Can fold a piece, wire and tapeo Gives softer, fluffier tuft of netting

Jewels and Novelties Many manufactured specifically for

corsage use Range in style

o Cute, youthful such as butterflies and ladybugs or more elegant such as pearls and rhinestones

Lightweight holiday and seasonal novelties made as well

Generally have wire attached for ease of use

Not all need wire or tape Low-temperature glues and liquid or spray

adhesives may be used

5th per. 4/28

Artificial Leaves Also called “glamour leaves” Added to corsages and boutonnieres

in addition to fresh foliage Available in variety of colors, sizes,

textures, and cluster groupings Add color and texture accents

throughout design Add touch of elegance

2nd per. 4/28

Decorative Wire Bullion wire: finer gauge wire and

crimped wireo Available on spools in rainbow of colors and

variety of styles and gauges Adds sparkle and shine Useful in intricate design work with

corsages Decorative and showy Fine wire also available with beads and

pearls

Decorative Wire (cont.) Thicker gauge and flat wire strong

and malleableo Ideal for structural work (constructing

wristlet foundation or creating arm band or cuff)

o Adds artistic touches to designs to wear

Sprays Spray paints and tints, specialty sprays Manufactured specifically for flowers Add color and sheen to flowers /

designs Follow directions on can or bottle Don’t hold aerosol can too close to

flowers while spraying Tipping: technique where edges of

carnations and other flowers can be lightly sprayed to add color

3rd per. 4/28

Design Construction

Design Construction Introduction

Can be made with single flower or multiple flowers and various combinations and styles

Learn how to make a single flower design then build from there

Can cluster smaller flowers together to form a boutonniere

Avoid making boutonnieres that are large and excessive

Corsages/boutonnieres are secured to clothing with pins o Pins available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and

colors

Design Construction Introduction (cont.)

Corsages and boutonnieres usually have several small flowers grouped together, accented with filler flowers and foliage

Corsages differ from boutonnieres with the addition of bows and other accessories

Design Construction Introduction (cont.)

Constructing corsages is similar to making several boutonnieres and putting them together

Boutonnieres often made with single flower such as a rose

Multiple flowers can be used to form a larger or more elegant boutonniere that gives additional color and styling

Design Construction Introduction (cont.)

Boutonnieres with multiple flowers and leaves can have decorative ribbon or wire addedo Gives visual weight and visual balance

Large, single flowers used to create simple, elegant corsages

Most common corsage design made with multiple small flowers or tiny clusters of flowers in infinite combinations and styles

Nestled Flowers Settled into position that seems

comfortable and safe within a cushion of another flower

Smaller flowers (sweetheart roses, carnation buds, tiny clusters) inserted into center of carnation or other similar type of flower

2nd per. 4/29

Stem Ends Cover all wires with floral tape on

stem ends since they are visible Some twist or turn taped stems Can wrap with decorative fine

metallic wire or crimped bullion wire in spiral pattern, winding down the stem and back up

Over-the-Shoulder Corsage

Also called epaulet corsages Worn on top of shoulder and cascade

down Constructed similar to other multiple-

flower corsages Smallest flowers on ends wired with

fine gauge wire to let them move freelyo Should be more widely spaced

5th per. 4/29

Composite Flowers Flower made up of detached petals,

leaves, and other plant parts “fantasy flowers” Petals from roses, lilies, gladiolus, and

dendrobrium orchids used Petals and plant parts wired and taped to

one another or glued together with floral adhesiveo Speeds construction time

Composite Flowers (cont.)

Glamellia corsage – made of various gladiolus florets arranged to resemble camellia

Once constructed, accessories added

Wrist Corsage Must be lightweight, small,

unobstrusive Made similar to shoulder corsage,

but must have wristlet of some kind Can be elaborate

Wrist Corsages (cont.) Commercial wristlets/wristbands available

o Shimmering fabric and elastic, faux-jewel bands, cuffs, bracelets, latch-type, Velcro

Wristbands attached to corsage in several wayso Metal clamps, wire, ribbon, floral adhesives

To speed construction, flowers, foliage, and accessories can be glued directly onto band or glued into bow, netting, or foliage foundation

3rd per. 4/29

Homecoming Mums/Garters

Can include live mums instead of artificial Be sure to have backing behind mum to

protect it Can wire in several ways Spray with clear glue and attach Be sure to not crush petals or touch them

a lot, as they can brown

Flowers for the Hair Tiny flowers or filler flower clusters

secured in hair with hairpins Small designs similar to boutonniere can

be attached to barrette, comb, or hair clip with wire or glue

Head Wreath Also called a chaplet Floral wreath or garland for the head Popular for festive occasions and weddings

o Flower girls Take head measurement before designing Made with wire, tape, glue, and flower

clusters

Lei Originates in Hawaii Garland or wreath of flowers and leaves Generally worn around shoulders about

the neck Vary greatly according to flowers, foliage,

and manner of assembly Simple lei made with carnations

Flowers to Hold Handheld flowers and bouquets for young

ladies at special events Sentimental tradition since English

Georgian and Victorian times Flowers inserted into wet foam holder or

tied together (hand-tied bouquet)

Sealers & Packaging

Sealers Also known as finishing spray Used prior to packaging Seals porous surfaces of flowers and

foliage Inhibit water loss Help flowers and leaves in corsages,

boutonnieres, and other floral pieces to remain firm for a long period of time

2nd per. 4/30

Sealers (cont.) Only apply to firm, healthy flowers and

foliageo Will not help flowers/leaves that are wilted

Allow sealer to dry before packaging

Packaging Package carefully to prevent moisture loss,

protect floral design, provide attractive presentation for receiver

Several types and sizes of boxes, bags, and packaging materials available

Floral piece placed on layer of shredded wax paper or orchid grasso Cushions and protects design