DIY : How to make floral garlands

Of all the sustainable floristry techniques I’ve learnt in the past few months, floral garlands are an absolute favourite. I love the potential flower garlands have for artist and creative interpretation.

For this floral garland, I used up the last of my dried flowers. I didn’t have loads of flowers spare but managed a petite garland ideal for ‘normal’ size dining tables or a mantle. I used a mix of Eucalyptus, Statice, Limonium, Gypsophila, Hydrangea, Roses, Peonies and some Helichrysum (strawflowers).

What is SO beautiful about this floral garland technique is it can be scaled up or down depending on final use. I made a huge version with winter foliage for my front window during Christmas and look forward to making a summer version with fresh Gypsophila and Statice in the upcoming months. Both are already growing in the greenhouse, a beautiful mix of peach and mauves – gaaah!

For this flower garland tutorial you’ll need craft wire, ribbon or string and of course flowers.

When it comes to flowers there are SO many different options; You could use all foliage like Eucalyptus, silk or faux flowers would look great if you already had them or need them to last for a while. Flowers like the heavily mentioned Gypsophlia or Limonium would look very pretty. The choice is yours.

Here’s how to make…

Step 1. Take a length of ribbon and string. The length will be determined by how many flowers you have. If you are planning on hanging leave enough extra length to make loop on either end. Fix the end of the wire to the ribbon/string.

Step 2. Take your first bunch of flowers and wrap with wire to fix to the ribbon/string. You can pre-make individual bunches or wrap as you go.

Step 3. Keep wrapping your flowers until they have (nearly) been used up. Save one bunch and wire in the opposite direction to finish the garland.  Use any spare flowers to fill in any gaps, gaps are naturally occurring so don’t worry.

Now it’s time to use and enjoy. For this set up I used the first flowers blooming in the cutting beds and garden. Sweet bud vases filled with hellebores and blossom mixed in make it look truly seasonal. I have since moved this garland to my mantle where I’ll mix in with some favourite Easter decorations.

Inspired? Take a look at some of my other garland-esque projects; A yellow and blue wedding, the bar set up! A sustainable summer funeral (its beautiful not sad), hanging flower garlands (a simple variation) and fresh foliage garlands .

If you’d like to see more, I’ve posted a reel onto my Instagram account @LottsandLots with more information.