Dawn Smith, the founder of Claygate's award-winning rtfact flowers, gives us some expert advice on how to create the ultimate artificial floral displays
THIERRY CARDINEAU
For some people, popping a few artificial stems into a vase may be a quick solution but I like to think there’s a little bit more to it and I’m happy to share my top tips… The quality of artificial flowers and greenery available now, is truly amazing in terms of range and life-like qualities. However, here’s some tried and tested suggestions for making the most out of the stems you have and ensuring you achieve the most convincing results. I've been faking it for 17 years and I still get so much pleasure from new customers walking into our shop everyday, asking for a fresh bunch!!! - so I guess we must be doing something right.
1) Colour is Key
Paul Broadrick
With artificial flowers and greenery, it’s really important to look at the shades of green and tones of colour. Using the correct shades of foliage is key to ensuring the overall look is achieved. Mixing too many different tones is a big no no in my book. Hold the stems in your hand and see if they compliment each other and if in doubt - keep it simple!
2) Make the most of what you have to work with
With artificial, sometimes the stems of a flower can be a giveaway, especially when buying the cheaper ones. Try using an opaque or solid ceramic vase, rather than clear glass.… Alternatively, if you really want to use clear glass then obscure the stems with leaves or foliage, depending on the look that you are trying to create.
3) Mix Fresh and Fake
Your fresh display will last longer by mixing in some artificial stems, also helping to keep costs down if you have a large arrangement being changed on a regular basis. There’s a fantastic range of greenery and florals available in artificial, but if you’re on a budget then its cheaper to use fresh greenery and woody materials as these last longer - and if properly conditioned, they can last for weeks, just top up with some beautiful faux blooms giving great scope for some really creative designs.
4) Show them some love
paul broadrick
You don’t need greenfingers but there’s nothing like a mound of dust on leaves or petals to give the game away! Artificial are easy to maintain, simply use a cool hairdryer or a clean cloth to wipe away any dust. you can use a damp cloth on leaves but never be tempted to use chemical product.
5) Finally, you really do get what you pay for…
It’s always worth paying a little extra for the best quality faux flowers and greenery … those that look like the “real deal” rather than a quick fix… as I’ve said, the stem and leaf colour are often the giveaway. Buy fewer stems… they are an investment and you can always add to your collection, a collection that you will love and enjoy for years.
- You can take a look at the full rtfact flowers range at rtfactflowers.co.uk, or visit in store at 22, The Parade, Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0NU.
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