How to Decorate Bedpans

Create an unusual table decoration from a bedpan using artificial flowers.

Bedpans come in many shapes and sizes, depending on their age. Antique bedpans are ceramic, while newer versions are made from metal. A decorated bedpan makes an interesting centerpiece, accent piece or wall decoration. The easiest way to decorate a bedpan is using artificial or dried flowers. Artificial vines work well when decorating a shelf. The process takes 15 to 30 minutes once all necessary equipment is gathered. Enjoy creating an unusual and unique decoration with a hospital bedpan.

Things You'll Need

• Bedpan
• Floral foam
• Steak knife
• Floral putty
• Artificial or dried flowers
• Artificial greenery
• Dried baby's breath
• Wire cutters

Instructions

1. Place a clean bedpan on a flat, stable work surface. Cut a piece of floral foam to fit within a 1/2-inch of the open area of the bedpan with a steak knife. Cut the foam so it is 2 inches tall. Place the floral foam in the desired location to make sure it fits. Remove the foam for now.

2. Remove a section of the floral putty and create a long snake of putty that is 4 inches long and 1 inch around. Place the tube of floral putty in the bedpan where the foam will be. Center the foam between the two long ends of the floral foam. Press the floral foam firmly onto the floral putty. The floral putty will flatten and hold the foam in place like glue.

3. Determine the height of the arrangement and whether it is to be seen on all sides or there is a back to the arrangement. A four-sided arrangement places the tallest flower in the center of the arrangement, while an arrangement with a back places the tallest flower to one side.

4. Cut the stem of the tallest flower so it is 8 to 10 inches tall. Insert the stem into the floral foam 1 1/2-inches deep.

5. Cut four flower stems 6 to 8 inches tall. Insert the flower stems into the floral foam at about a 20-degree angle. Position the four flowers around the center stem at equal distances.

6. Cut eight flower stems 4 to 6 inches tall. Insert the flower stems into the floral foam at a 45-degree angle. Position the four flowers directly in-front of the four flowers placed at a 20-degree angle. Position the remaining four flowers in the center space between the first four flowers placed directly under the 20-degree-angled flowers.

7. Fill in between the flowers with artificial greenery, dried baby's breath or smaller artificial flowers.

Tips & Warnings

• Substitute medical items floral-taped to floral wire in place of the artificial flowers, greenery or dried baby's breath, for a nod to the bedpan's original use. For example, you can use tongue depressors, thermometers, syringes, rolled bandages and cotton balls.

• Make sure your bedpan is sterilized before using it on a table where food will be served.