Materials for flowers:

container
floral adhesive
2" floral foam
serrated knife
Spanish moss
greening pins
artificial flowers

Figure A
Steps:

1. Prepare the container by putting floral adhesive around the inside of the container for the first piece of foam to rest on (figure A). Put more strips of adhesive on the top of the foam and add more layers until the foam extends one to two inches above the container. Cover the foam with Spanish moss and secure it with greening pins.
2. Select a variety of flowers that contain both large blossoms and small buds in colors that work nicely in your room and make sure to select a variety of different textures to give the arrangement interest. Before arranging them, open all of the flowers by unfolding each one from the bottom and shape the leaves and petals as naturally as possible.

PHOTO

Figure B
3. Keep in mind that for the best flower proportion, the arrangement should be about 1-1/2 times the height and width of the container. Start inserting flowers at the base with something soft and full to flow over the edges. Add the tallest slender branch pieces to create a fan shape (figure B).
4. Place the main flower of the arrangement strategically in the middle areas. Fill in the empty space with the secondary flowers that are either smaller or less vibrant. Finish with the filler flowers--usually small multiple flowers that are lacy and add texture. Stand back often to check the symmetry of the arrangement and make any necessary adjustments.