Week 8. Festive Fun

A lovely winter design in reds.

The last class before Christmas - a deceptively simple design with a red theme. I had to search around for the vase for this one - the shape is important The result is a jaunty boat-like arrangement that makes you smile. It really is all about the reds.

Using a single colour in this one is important. We have used red, but white would work just as well. The only variation may be different coloured baubles.

Equipment: a curved boat-shaped vase - the shape is important, oasis, red florists wire to bind the twigs, plastic baubles, sticks for the baubles, faux silk leaves with glitter.

Flowers and Foliage: some small twigs, 3 miniature amaryllis, 3 roses, 3 gerbera, ilex berries, eucalyptus leaves.

Step 1: divide the twigs into 3 small clumps and bind each one at 2 or 3 points to make a strong binding point. The red tie gives it a pop of colour.

Step 2: Use a low, long vase with an oasis about 1cm below the top of the container.

Step 3: Add the 3 x amaryllis, two in front, one towards the back. Think of them as the masts on a sailing ship.

Step 4: Add the 3 x bundles of sticks in a row in the centre.

Step 5: Add the faux leaves at each end.

Step 6: Add long, curved eucalyptus leaves to one end.

Step 7: Add the ilex berries towards the other end.

Step 8: Add 3-5 x red baubles to middle. Secure one of them on a stick (using tape) to give it extra height. Secure 1 to florists wire to let it dangle over the edge of the pot.

Step 9: Add the 3 x roses - keep them low.

Step 10: Add the 3 x gerberas - keep them low.

Step 11: fill in any gaps with smaller eucalyptus stems.

It does look like a very jaunty, festive boat. The focus point for this one is on the baubles. The arrangement is a neat one: a small footprint that packs a powerful punch.