How to Make a Casket Floral Piece

Casket Floral Piece

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Many of our viewers are learning floral design and training for a floral related position.

I would also like to add that this part of floral design has certainly been my hardest. Not in the way of design but in the way of comfort to the family. Florists certainly are people too but when families are ordering funeral pieces (and this is a part of the grieving process) you need to realize you are there to help. The only words I have ever learned to use is "I am sorry for your loss". Yes it is ok to go to the back room when the family has left and cry and I cannot tell you how many times I have done just that, but while they are in your store, comfort and help is as important as any floral arrangement. Our small town is like a large family and any loss is a loss to all.

Listening is also a key. Did their love one like certain flowers or colors? Do they want lettering on the ribbon? Would they want something personal put into the middle of the piece? What is the style or color of casket? What color clothing will their loved one be wearing? I have many books which I show the family but 95% of the time we work together and improvise to their personal want.

Click on any photo below for larger view.

Supplies:
1 - John Henry Casket Saddle
2 Groups Leather Leaf
1 - Block Instant Oasis
4 yards Satin Red Ribbon
Floral Anchor Tape
6 - White Spider Mums
12 - Charlotte Roses
7 - Delphinium Bella Donna Blue
6 - stems White Asters
1/2 group Million Star Gyp

Start by soaking Instant Oasis and taping with Floral Anchor tape to saddle. If you have looked at many of my basic instructions, you notice I teach by using an imaginary X. The X in this arrangement is in the middle of the block. All flowers and foliage will be inserted in the block angling towards this X. Be sure to cut your stems to go into the block about 1 1/2". When I first started, I would hold a piece next to arrangement and eye measure before cutting. Remember you have a large amount of flowers and foliage going into one block. This is probably one of the most important steps. Start from the bottom of the block and work upward.

Important: When working with Oasis, after pushing a flower into the block, do not pull out to readjust. You will create air pockets and the flower will not be able to drink. The block is to provide a water source in order for flowers to stay fresh a few days.
When the foliage has been added, I start by adding ribbon (if they wish) This piece has large spider mums which I have stair stepped down the middle. Next delphinium. Notice I am working from the bottom of the block upward with the outside flowers.

This piece called for one dozen roses. They have been placed evenly throughout this piece. When I use 60-70cm roses, I normally do not wire the roses as the stems are strong enough to hold. Smaller roses or thin stemmed flowers, you might need to wire. You do this by pushing one end of wire into the head of flower (at base of flower), while holding the flower head, then twist wire around and down the stem.

After the larger flowers have been added, I have inserted white asters and million star gyp. This piece turned out really beautiful.

I will be doing more funeral pieces and as you watch, you will pick up more instruction each time. Also, to practice, pick up all the supplies and do yourself. There is nothing like working these bouquets yourself. If these flowers cost more than you would like to use in a practice bouquet, improvise. Depending on the part of the country you live, there are many types of outdoor bushes that will work as foliage.