Techniques for creating wired floral designs (corsages, buttonholes, headdresses)

Techniques for Creating Wired Corsages

Plan ahead: Sketch out your design based on the occasion and wearer’s attire. Fill in details such as colour scheme and type of flowers.
Choose materials: Select suitable flowers, foliage, and additional decorations. Remember that corsages are typically small and delicate, so choose small blooms and leaves. Opt for resilient flowers that can withstand a bit of handling.
Wire each component: Different components require different wiring techniques. For example, stem-stitching for foliage and piercing or hook wiring for flowers.
Tape each wire: Use floral tape to cover each wired stem. It not only provides a neat finish but also offers support and prevents damaging the wearer’s clothing.
Assemble the design: Start by arranging your largest blooms first, then fill in gaps with smaller flowers and foliage. Think about the balance and proportion of the finished corsage and ensure it isn’t too heavy or bulky for the wearer.
Secure the elements: Use fine wire to bind the elements together. Hide the wire with more floral tape for a neat finish.
Attach a fastener: Add a pin, magnet, or wrist strap, depending on how the corsage will be worn.

Choose your flower: Typically buttonholes feature a single, small to medium-sized, sturdy flower like a rose or carnation.
Prepare the flower and foliage: Remove all lower leaves and thorns. Wire the stem for support through the technique of stem wiring.
Create the design: Position the flower bud at the top with leaves and possibly small filler flowers behind it.
Wire everything together: Using florist wire and tape, secure everything together. The flower should stand upright when the buttonhole is worn.
Finish the stem: Use more floral tape to cover the wires, providing a neat and comfortable finish.

Determine your base: Use a ready-made circlet, or create your own using flexible wire or vine.
Select your floral materials: Opt for lightweight and durable flowers. Headdresses need to look good from all angles, so think about how your chosen materials will look from different directions.
Prepare your flowers: Each flower and leaf may need to be individually wired and taped. This provides additional strength and flexibility for arranging.
Layout your design: Before attaching anything, layout your flowers and foliage on the headdress base. This lets you visualise the end result and make any necessary adjustments.
Attach your pieces: Use fine wire to carefully attach each element. Hide wires with floral tape for a neat finish.
Check for comfort and durability: Make sure the headdress fits comfortably, isn’t too heavy, and can withstand some movement without losing blooms.
Store correctly: Keep the headdress moist and cool until it’s ready to be worn. A sealed bag in a refrigerator is ideal.