Immediately freshen up any space, such as your kitchen counter, entryway, or bedside table by adding fresh or faux flowers. Read on to learn how to make a flower arrangement in just five easy steps.

For more inspo on how to make a flower arrangement with faux flowers, check out our guide, Material Guide for Artificial Flowers That Look Real.

1. Cut & Prepare Flowers

Before you begin to add your flowers to a vase, unwrap them from their plastic or paper and remove any rubber bands. Cut the stems of your flowers at an angle roughly 2 to 2 1/2 inches from the bottom. This angular cut ensures that the stem won’t rest on the bottom of the vase keeping it from getting water or potentially growing moldy. Remove any leaves or thorns that will be sitting in the vase water to keep them from getting soggy and odorous. Dip the cut stems in granulated sugar to increase the weight of the flower and prolong their life.

Tip!

You can skip this step entirely and use faux flowers that will last forever.

2. Choose a Vase

The size and shape of the vessel are important to support and complement your flower arrangement’s shape and stems. As a rule, give your vase enough room so that your bouquet is about 1 1/2 times taller than its container. Consider the mouth of the vase to ensure that it’s appropriate for the width of your bouquet.

3. Add in Some Water

Fill the vase about 3/4 of the way with cold water. Remember to keep any leaves or branches from falling in the water of the vase. To combat bacteria growth, use the ratio 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 2 teaspoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon bleach to a quart of water. If the water appears cloudy or smells musty, it’s time to change the water.

Avoid any foul-smelling water by opting for a faux flower arrangement, and fill your vase full of polished pebbles or decorative stones instead of water.

4. Create a Base with Texture

For a mixed bouquet, begin by placing the assorted greenery and the largest blooms around the perimeter of the vase first, then fill in towards the center. Play with heights and textures during this stage and include stems such as ferns, cotton, or baby’s breath.

5. Arrange the Rest of Your flowers

Use this step to get creative! Consider the shape, color, texture, and scent of your florals when making a cohesive arrangement. Create arrangements based on your favorite colors, or coordinate them with the season. Make an entire bouquet of just your favorite type of flower, or choose flowers that are specifically in season. There are no rules.

Tip!

Make a grid of tape across the top of your vase to help keep your flowers upright. Add flowers at an angle in alternating directions to give the appearance of a full bouquet.

Adding a floral arrangement can liven up any space and it doesn’t have to be a large expense. Learning how to make a flower arrangement can be fun and also save your money. Check out more of our flowers and pre-made floral arrangements.