How to Make Floral Arrangements for Funerals

Floral arrangements are often given to the family of the deceased before a funeral to show support and love in their time of need. Though flowers might seem overly bright for a funeral, they are traditionally given and can be seen as a celebration of the life of the deceased. Making a floral arrangement personally not only shows the family your support, but it also shows love and kindness.

Things You'll Need

• Basket
• Floral foam
• Scissors
• Flowers
• Water

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Cut the floral foam into the shape and size of the basket. It should fit snugly in the basket without movement when the basket is picked up. If it moves, the foam is too small.

• 2

  Select flowers. Appropriate flowers vary dramatically at different funerals, as arrangements that are too bright may seem out of place at some funerals, but may show a personal touch at others if they were made of the deceased's favorite flowers. White roses or white lilies are always appropriate and are traditional for showing sorrow. If you'd like to make a brighter floral arrangement, adding white flowers can give the arrangement a traditional touch. Appropriate flowers include the favorite flower of the deceased, white flowers of any kind or flowers that show support for the family, such as the favorite flower of the deceased's child or spouse.

• 3

  Place the flowers along the side of the basket to determine the height. Trim or cut the bottom of the flowers according to the height needs for the basket. Long stemmed flowers will usually need the bottom cut off about 3 to 5 inches, depending on the flower and the basket size. Shorter stemmed flowers might not need trimming of cutting.

• 4

  Push the flowers gently into the foam. Make sure they are pushed in at an angle that allows the flowers to go in various directions. Add white flowers for tradition and accenting. The exact design and appearance will differ based on the individual arranging the flowers, but typically the longer stemmed flowers should be in the back while the shorter stemmed flowers should be in the front. Never place clashing colors next to each other.

• 5

  Adjust the flowers to create an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

• 6

  Add water as needed to keep live flowers alive. If the funeral is the next day, the foam should be damp enough to keep the flowers looking fresh.