Mandy’s Calla Lily DIY Bouquet Artificial Flowers, 20-Piece

Flower arrangements bring beauty to any space, but fresh-cut flower arrangements can quickly wilt and decay in a depressing and unsightly fashion. Luckily, the loveliness of nature can be maintained indefinitely with artificial flowers and plants. Artificial flowers are allergen-free, versatile, long-lasting and always in season.

Artificial flowers can be made of a variety of materials, including plastics and polyester, but the most common material for faux flowers is silk. There is no limit to the colors or species of artificial flowers; you can have the look of rare blooms from far-away climates or flowers that are difficult to care for without the hassle. You can even have flowers in colors that don’t exist in nature, or entirely made-up blooms.

A familiar flower’s silhouette in an unusual hue can make a dramatic aesthetic statement. Some florists even mix artificial and natural plants in their arrangements, using artificial materials to substitute for delicate blooms and real plants for woody or hardy elements that require little maintenance.

However, while artificial flowers require much less maintenance than fresh-cut arrangements, they do require some occasional attention. They will need to be dusted and fluffed, especially after transport. This is when materials and constructions really matter, as the arrangement may have to go through repeated packing, rearranging and dusting.

For the most natural possible look, hand-painted flowers are best. They evoke subtle gradations and the lack of uniformity that occurs in nature. Beware of cheap materials that can chip or discolor.

• Decide if you want a natural, classic look or something more dramatic. Even if you opt for colors that aren’t normally associated with a particular plant or bloom, high-quality materials can still convey a soothing, naturalistic impression.
• Artificial flowers are available in a variety of forms, including single stems, branches, bundles, sprays, garlands and bushes. These variations will come at different price points.
• Decide if you want to invest in a small number of high-quality single pieces or if you want to opt for blooms that come in bunches or bouquets.
• High-quality artificial flowers often have longer stems with a metal wire core. This helps support their weight and allows for shaping into wreaths or garlands. Make sure the floral tape or other material that wraps around the stem still provides the naturalistic look you’re aiming for.