How to Choose the Floral Tapes & Wraps
Floral Tapes & Wraps: Enhancing the Beauty of Floral Arrangements
What Are Floral Tapes & Wraps?
Floral tapes and wraps are essential tools used by florists and DIY enthusiasts to create stunning floral arrangements. These versatile materials not only provide structural support but also add a touch of elegance and professionalism to any bouquet or centerpiece. Whether you are a professional florist or simply enjoy arranging flowers as a hobby, understanding the benefits and uses of floral tapes and wraps can greatly enhance your floral creations.
Floral Tapes:
What is floral tape?
Floral tape is a non-sticky pressure-sensitive tape that adheres to itself when stretched. It is commonly used in floral arrangements to conceal wires and other hardware when making corsages and similar floral decorations. It is also used to bind wires to flower stems and to join wired or taped flowers together.
What types of floral tape are available on the market?
There are various types of floral tape available on the market:
- Floral tape is typically sold in 12mm (0.5-inch) widths.
- Two of the most common brands in the market are "Floral tape" and "Parafilm."
- The most common colors of floral tape are green and white.
- Green floral tape is ideal for camouflaging and blending with flowers and foliage.
- White floral tape is commonly used for wedding work.
How do you use floral tape?
Using floral tape may seem easy, but practice is essential to improve your technique. Follow these steps to use floral tape effectively:
- Take the floral tape and stretch it as you wrap it around the flower stem or wire.
- Apply pressure and stretch the tape while winding it around your work; this will cause it to stick together.
- Ensure you maintain a steady and firm tension on the tape while binding, as loose tape may not conceal your wiring properly and could fall off.
- If the tape does not adhere to the wire and remains loose, increase the tension while wrapping.
- When correctly applied, the taped parts of your project will look smooth and seamlessly blend in with the bouquet or arrangement.
Floral Wraps:
What Are Floral Wraps?
Floral wraps are materials used to cover the stems of flowers and provide a finishing touch to the arrangement. They are available in various materials, such as tissue paper, cellophane, or fabric, each offering different aesthetic effects.
Different Types of Floral Wrap
There are various types of floral wraps that can be used to enhance the presentation and protection of flowers. Here are some common types:
- Cellophane Wrap: Cellophane is a transparent, thin, and flexible material that is commonly used for wrapping flowers. It provides a clear view of the flowers while protecting them from damage and moisture.
- Kraft Paper Wrap: Kraft paper is a sturdy and eco-friendly material that is often used for wrapping flowers. It has a natural and rustic appearance, making it popular for bouquets with a more organic feel.
- Tissue Paper Wrap: Tissue paper is a delicate and lightweight option for wrapping flowers. It comes in various colors and can be used to add a touch of elegance and vibrancy to the bouquet.
- Fabric Wrap: Fabric wraps, such as organza or satin, can add a luxurious and sophisticated touch to floral arrangements. They are often used for special occasions like weddings or formal events.
- Burlap Wrap: Burlap is a coarse and textured material that gives a rustic and vintage look to flower arrangements. It is commonly used for country-style or farmhouse-themed bouquets.
- Mesh Wrap: Mesh wraps, like floral netting or mesh ribbon, are flexible and breathable materials that provide support and protection to delicate flowers. They are often used by florists to create structured arrangements.
- Decorative Wraps: Apart from the basic wraps, there are various decorative wraps available, such as printed or patterned wraps, metallic wraps, or wraps with embellishments like ribbons, lace, or beads. These wraps can add a unique and personalized touch to the bouquet.
How do you use Floral Wrap?
To use floral wrap, follow these steps:
- Prepare your flowers: Trim the stems of your flowers to the desired length, removing any excess leaves or thorns.
- Choose the floral wrap: Select a floral wrap that suits your style and complements the flowers you are using. Floral wraps come in various materials such as cellophane, tissue paper, or fabric.
- Cut the floral wrap: Measure and cut the floral wrap to an appropriate size. It should be large enough to fully enclose the bouquet of flowers.
- Arrange the flowers: Hold the flowers together in a bouquet formation, making sure they are evenly distributed and arranged to your liking.
- Wrap the flowers: Place the bouquet in the center of the floral wrap. Gently gather the wrap around the stems, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Make sure the wrap is snug but not too tight, allowing room for the flowers to breathe.
- Secure the wrap: Use a ribbon, twine, or floral tape to secure the floral wrap in place. Tie a knot or bow tightly around the stems, ensuring the wrap stays in position.
- Trim excess wrap: If there is excess floral wrap, trim it neatly to create a clean finish. You can cut it straight across or create a decorative edge.
- Add finishing touches: Consider adding a decorative touch, such as a personalized tag, a sprig of greenery, or a small embellishment, to enhance the overall presentation.
- Care for the bouquet: Once wrapped, place the bouquet in a vase with water or keep it in a cool, shaded area until you're ready to gift or display it.
Conclusion
Floral tapes and wraps are indispensable tools for both professional florists and hobbyists alike. They offer practicality, versatility, and aesthetic value, allowing designers to create stunning floral arrangements that are both structurally sound and visually appealing. Whether used to secure stems, add color and texture, or create a cohesive look, these tapes and wraps play a vital role in the art of floral design.