How to Make Memorial Flowers

Fresh memorial flowers placed on a gravestone.

Using fresh flowers and greenery to make a memorial wreath is a loving way to remember a loved one. A wreath is a common flower arrangement used at funerals and memorials because the circle symbolizes eternal life. Memorial wreaths can be hung, used as centerpieces or placed on stands. They are easy to make and can add a special touch to any memorial or graveside service.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh flowers
• Fresh greenery
• Garden shears
• Round floral wreath form
• Bow

Instructions

1. 

   Roses make a great addition to memorial wreaths.

   Purchase flowers and greenery from a local florist; the flowers should be ready to bloom so they will last a few days once the wreath is complete. The most popular flowers for this purpose are roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums, but choose flowers that can be associated with the loved one, such as her favorite color or a flower that had meaning to her.

2. Cut the stems of the flowers and greenery and place them in water to seal in the nutrients, making them last longer. Set them aside.

3. Soak the round floral wreath form in a sink for two hours.

4. Starting with the large flowers and working gradually smaller in size, place the flower stems into the floral wreath form in the design of your choice. If you're using several kinds of flowers, mirror the arrangement on each side so it's symmetrical.

5. Add greenery in the spaces around the flowers to give the wreath color and depth; baby's breath works well.

6. Place the bow on the top or bottom of the wreath.

Tips & Warnings

• Cut the flowers and soak them in the morning, when flower stems are filled with nutrients. This will harden the flowers and help prevent them from wilting.

• Water may drip out of the round floral wreath form.

References

• 800Florals.com: Funeral Flowers

Resources

• Save on Crafts: Wreath Bases