Swags have become very popular decorating items. Not only are they beautiful, but they fit easily into many areas of your home. Floral designer B.J. Dyer joins host Michele Driscoll Alioto to demonstrate how to make natural swags from fresh foliage and flowers:
Materials:
- clamp or other type of clamp that will attach to table
- a mix of foliage such as dark glossy leaves, flat dull leaves, various ferns, eucalyptus, etc.
- fresh flower heads
- string or twine for main "spine" of swag
- floral wire
Steps:
- Use a C-clamp on the end of a table to anchor a length of waxed twine or string; floral, brass or copper wire can also be used. The size and weight of the garland determines the size and gauge of the wire or string.
- Prepare foliage by stripping leaves from individual stems so that a space of several inches of stem is available to attach to the wire or string.
- Beginning at one end of the sway, lay a piece of foliage parallel to the main length of wire or string. Use floral wire to wrap the stem to the main string. Repeat along the length of string, being sure to overlap stems as you go.
- After all the foliage pieces are in place, go back in and add fresh flowers for color, if desired.
- To help your natural garland last a few days, mist it regularly to keep it moist and fresh-looking.
Guests B. J. Dyer
Floral Designer and Owner, Bouquets
1525 15th St.
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-333-5500
URL:
www.bouquets.org
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