Floral Design Basics
What is the process of prepping flowers?
Preparing flowers by cutting stems and placing them in water with preservative to ensure longevity.
What flower is associated with Christmas time
Poinsettia
What is floral foam used for?
To hold flowers in place and provide water.
What are the three primary colors?
Red, blue, and yellow
What principle ensures all parts of the design work together harmoniously?
Unity
What is the focal point of an arrangement?
The area that immediately draws attention — often the center or brightest bloom.
What white flower have we used for wedding arrangements?
Roses
What tool is used to remove thorns or leaves from stems?
Stem stripper.
What is a monochromatic color scheme?
Using tints and shades of one color
What principle refers to the pleasing relationship of parts to each other and the whole?
Proportion
What does “balance” mean in floral design?
Visual and physical stability so the arrangement doesn’t look or tip off-center.
What is the common name for Dianthus caryophyllus?
Carnation.
What gauge wire is thicker — 18 or 26?
18 gauge
What color scheme uses colors opposite each other on the color wheel?
Complementary
What principle uses variety to create interest?
Contrast.
What is proportion in floral design?
The relationship between the size of the container, flowers, and overall design (often 1½ to 2× the height of the container).
This tropical flower has a unique bird-like shape.
Bird of Paradise.
What are floral frogs or pin holders used for?
To anchor stems in the bottom of containers, especially in ikebana or foam-free designs.
What is the term for colors next to each other on the color wheel?
Analogous
What principle makes one area stand out as the center of attention?
Focal point or emphasis
What is rhythm in floral design?
A sense of movement created by repetition, color, or line that guides the viewer’s eye through the design.
What flower is often used as a filler with small white blooms?
Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila)
What tool helps cut thick stems or floral wire cleanly?
Floral clippers or wire cutters.
What emotion do cool colors (like blue and green) typically convey?
Calmness or tranquility.
What is the difference between symmetrical and asymmetrical balance?
Symmetrical is even on both sides; asymmetrical is balanced visually but not identical.