Containers to Suit Different Flower Arrangements

Floral Displays are Enhanced by Correct Choice of Flower Holders

Sep 13, 2009 Pauline Mascarenhas

The vase is an essential part of a floral display. The correct choice will enhance the aesthetics whilst the wrong container will detract from the beauty of the flowers.

A beautiful floral display in a style and colour that blends with the decor will make any room more attractive. Flower arrangements are used at formal or informal functions and are in everyday use in homes.

Although almost anything that holds water can be used as a vase for a floral display, the choice of container is only second to the choice of flowers. It is important that the container blends with the decor of the room in size, style and colour.

Types of Suitable Containers for Everyday Use

Glass containers in any shape or size. Even a large wine goblet can make a suitable container for a flower display.
Pottery vases are suitable for more rustic arrangements.
Ceramic vases in different colours and styles are very versatile.

There are other household objects that can easily double as flower holders. Large mugs, jugs and even casserole dishes can be used with the right type of flowers and foliage.

Flower Holders for Special Occasions

Heirloom pieces or reproductions are ideal for arrangements in a traditional style.
Pewter, copper and brass containers are versatile and can be used for any occasion and with most styles of arrangements.
Stainless steel and aluminium containers are more suitable for modern displays.

The more expensive containers such as crystal and wedgewood should only be used in minimalistic designs to emphasise the beauty and the elegance of the vase.

Size, Shape and Colour of Containers

The size of the container should be in scale with the piece of furniture on which it is to stand. A small round coffee table will have a display with a smaller container than an arrangement for a round dinner table.
To a certain extent the shape of the container is dictated to by the choice of the flowers. Long stemmed flowers will be easier to arrange in a tall vase than in a shallow bowl. However, the style of the arrangements should also be considered when choosing a container. For example a bowl-shaped container would be more suitable than a shallow dish for a mass arrangement.
The colour of the container has to harmonize with the decor and the flowers. Initially it is easier for beginners to work with colours such as tan, brown, grey, green or beige as they blend easily with most decors and plant materials. White and other bold colours are difficult to use as they take the emphasis away from the flowers.

Having a collection of containers on hand to choose from and the necessary flower holders will make putting together a floral arrangement much easier. Experimenting with various combinations of flowers and containers at home will be useful prior to attempting formal displays.

The copyright of the article Containers to Suit Different Flower Arrangements in Interior Decorating is owned by Pauline Mascarenhas. Permission to republish Containers to Suit Different Flower Arrangements in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Containers Enhance Flower Arrangements