Flower-cadabra! It appears that a magical spell has taken over these flowers. They are standing up by themselves on the table without the use of a vase, or even invisible wires. What's the secret? Magnets. A nail glued to a magnet is inserted into the base of the flower's stem, and the magnet is attracted to a galvanized piece of metal hidden underneath the table runner. Besides amazing your friends and family, these magnetic flowers also make a beautiful centerpiece or party decoration.
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Things You'll Need
Neodymium magnets
Nails
Permanent adhesive
Galvanized steel shingles
Table runner
Flowers
Step 1: Select Your Magnets and Nails
The best type of magnets for this project are neodymium magnets, also called rare-earth magnets. They are the strongest magnets available commercially, and can be purchased at crafts and hardware stores, or from online retailers. The ones used for this project are 3/8 inch in diameter and 1/16 inch thick. The nails used are 1 1/2-inch 3D size, though they can be larger, as long as the diameter of the nail head is smaller than the diameter of the magnet, and the length of the nail will fit inside the flower stem.
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Warning
Because the magnets are so strong, heed the precautions that are printed with the packaging. They are not toys, and should be kept away from children.
Step 2: Glue Nails to Magnets
Using permanent adhesive like E6000, glue the nail head to the center of the magnet. To stop the magnet from jumping around, place it on a piece of metal like the galvanized shingle to keep it steady while gluing.
Step 3: Hide the Steel Shingles
Tuck the galvanized steel shingles under a table runner or table cloth. You can purchase 8 inch x 12 inch shingles in the roofing supply aisle at home improvement stores for less than a dollar each.
Step 4: Cut the Flower Stem
Flowers with thicker stems like gerbera daisies and roses work very well for this project. Also, even though they will not have a water source, these flowers will stay fresh for the duration of your party or event. Cut the stems at a straight angle, and not more than a foot long. Any taller, and they may tip over.
Step 5: Insert the Nail into the Stem
Place the nail into the stem all the way until the base of the stem makes contact with the magnet.
Step 6: Place Flower on Table
Position the flower with the magnetic insert onto the fabric-covered steel shingle. The magnet will hold firmly to the steel beneath, and the flower will stand upright, supported by the nail within.
The extreme strength of the neodymium magnet makes it work even with a thick piece of fabric between it and the steel.
Line several flowers along the length of a table for a dramatic centerpiece with personality—a magnetic personality.
