How to Make a Hanging Flower Pomander

Homemade hanging flower pomander

When it comes to displaying flowers, why not take them off the table? Floral pomanders (sometimes also called kissing balls) made of daisies, carnations, roses, dahlias or other sturdy flowers are a gorgeous--and relatively simple way--to take your flowers to new heights.

Things You'll Need

• Flowers (daisies, carnations, roses, etc.)
• Oasis floral foam spheres
• Chicken wire
• 20-gauge wire
• Wire cutters
• Scissors
• Water
• Large bowl
• Ribbon (grosgrain, satin or ribbon of your choice--just ensure it's strong enough to support the ball)

Instructions

1. Purchase floral foam balls in the size of your choice (available at any floral supply store or online), flowers (sturdy flowers so they don't get crushed) and wire.

2. Prepare the ball for hanging by wrapping the chicken wire around the diameter of the ball, then crisscrossing it to divide the ball into quarters. Twist the ends of the wire into a small loop (you'll slip the ribbon through this loop later to hang the ball). If you would prefer to use the balls as centerpieces or a non-hanging display, skip this step.

3. Soak the foam in water.

4. Trim the stems of the flowers at an angle, leaving an inch or so beneath the head.

5. Insert the flowers. If the stems of your chosen flowers are strong enough, insert them into the ball as is. If you have trouble with this, use the 20-gauge wire to assist in the insertion. Cut it into 4-inch pieces, fold them in half and insert both ends through the blossoms. Then insert the wired flowers into the balls. Start by inserting flowers in a straight line, creating a ring around the ball. Then cover each half of the ball with flowers, overlapping the petals slightly and making sure to fill in all the gaps.

6. Slip ribbon through the loop you created at the top of the ball. You can tie a pretty bow, or if you prefer a cleaner look, tie the ends of the ribbon into a strong knot and use the wire to tuck the ribbon into the top of the ball and out of sight.

7. Try alternatives. Use silk flowers instead of real flowers. If you do go this route, use Styrofoam balls and skip the soaking. You can also use hot glue to help secure the fake flowers.