Handy things ‘you might use during, and might need after, your lessons :

Floral foam is one of the most important supplies for flower arranging, since it helps to keep the arrangement in place. Floral foam is cut with a serrated knife to fit the size of your container. There are many different types of floral foam, however, so it’s important to know what type is right for your project. Water-holding floral foam, sometimes called oasis foam, is ideal for working with fresh flowers because it holds moisture very well. Desert foam or plastic foam is a better choice for silk flower arranging.

Waterproof tape is a general purpose adhesive used in floral arranging to hold the floral foam in place. This tape, generally available in white, green, and clear varieties, is pressure sensitive. If adhered to a dry surface, waterproof tape will stick to glass, wood, plastic, ceramic, and metal vases or containers.

Pan melt glue pots let you melt small glue pellets to use as a strong adhesive for flower arranging. This is particularly useful if you are making a large silk arrangement and need to firmly secure the ends of the flowers into the floral foam. However, if you can’t find pan melt glue or you’re simply trying to save money, a high-quality low temperature glue gun will be an acceptable substitute.

If you’re planning to make corsages, boutonnières, or floral headpieces, floral stem tape is a useful supply for flower arranging. This tape is strong, yet highly flexible. The adhesive is activated when the tape is stretched. In addition, floral stem tape is also a great way to lengthen and strengthen stems.

Floral arrangements used for weddings, baby showers, and other special occasions often include candles as part of the design. To make this type of arrangement, you’ll need waterproof clay to use as an adhesive for the candle holders and other dimensional accents in your arrangement. However, it’s important to remember that the clay won’t stick correctly if the base of your arrangement isn’t completely dry and free of dust.