Fig. G: Insert the stamens into the middle of the petal
trio. Fig. H: Tighten the stem, taking care to cover any
exposed wire and raw edges.
possible at the petal’s outer edge, and fuller toward
the center.
5. Secure your petal.
When you’re happy with the way your petal looks,
secure the base with 2"– 3" of wire. To do this,
position the middle of the wire strip at the petal
base and wrap it around a few times. Line up the 2
wire ends that will make your stem (see Figure F
for finished wire detail). Carefully trim the excess
hose, making sure not to cut it too close to the
wire. Now wrap the base a few times with floral
tape to make sure the nylon is secure.
6. Create a trio of petals.
Using the previous instructions, make 2 more
petals (you can make more petals if you desire
a more intricate blossom, but too many can be
difficult to manage).
7. Let your petals bloom.
Take several stamens (I used 3) and insert them into
the middle of your petal trio (Figure G). Use the tape
to secure the group, taking care again to cover any
exposed wire or raw edges (Figure H). Add some
J
Fig. I. Attach the leaves and bind the entire stem with
floral tape. Fig. J: Something blue, ready for a wedding
or two.
faux leaves and fasten with tape (Figures I and J).
Try different colors!
8. Wrap your stem.
Beginning at the base, wrap your stem with floral
tape, being sure to cover any raw edges or wire
(Figure E). Continue all the way down the stem,
molding the tape to the wire.
Mary Beth Klatt is a Chicago writer who frequently writes
about fashion and design. In her spare time, she loves to sew,
knit, and crochet (not all at the same time).
