How to Create an Asymmetrical Floral Arrangement the Easy Way
Are you familiar with a scalene triangle? Don’t worry, I wasn’t either until I was. The scalene triangle formula is what is used by floral designers to build an asymmetrical flower arrangement. I’m going to show you how to create a beautiful and dramatic floral arrangement without worrying about math and angles. Please join me as we get busy with some pretty blooms.
Asymmetrical floral arrangements are full of charm and drama and appear more complicated than they need to be. The asymmetry actually looks more natural than a perfectly centered arrangement. Flowers don’t grow symmetrically in the wild, so our eyes read the imbalance as organic and alive. You can build an asymmetrical floral design with a few simple steps and techniques.
Key Take Aways
A How To Tutorial
Creating An Asymmetrical Floral Arrangement
Asymmetrical | Scalene Triangle Review
Step by Step DIY Instructions
Tutorial Insider Tips
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What is an Asymmetrical Floral Design?
The classic asymmetrical form is a scalene triangle (three unequal sides and angles) in shape. It is characterized by asymmetrical balance, equal visual balance but unequal volume on either side of the vertical axis. See what I mean? We’re going to leave all the math behind and build an asymmetrical floral arrangement the easy and fun way with creative intention.
The funny thing is, geometry was my favorite math subject in school. I vaguely remember scalene triangles now that I’m reading about it, but I would have never applied it to floral design in a million years. And… here we are.
How to Build an Asymmetrical Floral Arrangement the Easy Way
Crafting Pro Tip: Read all the instructions through once and then re-read everything again. This way, you are familiar with everything you need and know what to expect.
Instructions
- Read instructions thoroughly and assemble all supplies & tools
- Prep floral stems by unwrapping and placing in water
- Prep floral container with mechanics (I used chicken wire form)
- Create a chicken wire foundation and insert into container
- If chicken wire isn’t secure use floral tape to secure it against wall or lip of container (same goes for any mechanics you’re using like floral foam, frog, etc.)
- Insert three blooms of first focal flower (hydrangea) variety very low against one side of container so flower heads just peek over side, creating the low side of arrangement (remove any unnecessary foliage on stems)
- Insert seven to nine blooms of other focal flower (peony tulip) variety on opposite side of container sticking stems high up on arrangement moving towards the middle of container, creating tall side of arrangement (remove unnecessary foliage on stems)
- Use filler stems to fill up arrangement, pointing florals down on low side and up and out on high side
- Use greenery to add contrast throughout arrangement, making sure greenery stems on low side are short and droop down, while greenery on high side remain tall and point up and out
- Voila! Place your asymmetrical flower arrangement somewhere you can see and enjoy it!
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Tips & Recommendations to Keep In Mind
Mechanics are Key
Just like every house needs a sturdy foundation to keep it safe and sound, so does an asymmetrical flower arrangement. An asymmetrical arrangement actually needs it more than a regular flower display since it’s off balance and can tip easily. In order too keep the high blooms perky and tall and the low blooms hanging just so, while maintaining the entire arrangement in balance, the mechanics are crucial.
Container Choices
Containers are a personal choice, but for an asymmetrical floral display I prefer something footed to showcase the off-set composition. A vessel with a pedestal provides the proper dimension for the low side to dramatically droop perfectly. Containers like urns, compotes, pedestal bowls are perfect for this treatment. Although any vessel will do. Use what you have and prefer.
Color Palette
I chose a strict color palette of only two hues for this project to really accentuate the asymmetry angle. The cream and green combination is a fresh and clean look. Feel free to use colors, which speak to you and compliment your interior design.
Flower Varieties
I chose green hydrangeas and cream peony tulips as the two main floral varieties for this arrangement, but once again use flowers you prefer. I found all my florals at Trader Joe’s, and although I had a rough idea of what I wanted, I had to select from the varieties available. The peony tulips have become favorites of mine this time of year since I discovered them a few years ago. If you can, using flowers from your yard is a great option.
Odd Number Rule
The idea behind the odd number rule in design is that things arranged in odd numbers are more visually appealing and create more energy. The composition will be more dynamic if there’s an odd number of elements. The arrangement is composed of three main elements, including focal flowers, filler florals and greenery. Make sure to look at arrangement from all sides as you compose the display.
Closing Thoughts ~ Conclusion
Fresh flowers make our interiors brighter and more beautiful. And although simple flower arrangements add charm and beauty, an asymmetrical flower arrangement adds drama and a wow factor. I hope this easy tutorial helps you create an amazing display for your own home. If you’ve already mastered the art of asymmetrical floral arrangement, please share any secrets down below in the comments. I would love to hear.
Thanks for spending time from your busy day with me today. I’m looking forward to seeing you next time.
Au Revoir!
FAQs
1. Do I need any special tools or skills to make an asymmetrical floral arrangement?
Nope! No special skills are required! All you need are sharp floral scissors or shears, a clean container, and a floral mechanic like foam, tape, chicken wire or floral frog for support. The key is simply placing your focal flowers off-center and from there building layers. This step-by-step method makes it approachable for complete beginners.
2. How do I keep my asymmetrical floral arrangement fresh the longest?
Simply change the water and trim the stems at an angle every few days, and keep the arrangement away from direct sunlight and heat sources to extend its life. With proper care, most fresh arrangements last 5–10 days.
3. What flowers work best for asymmetrical arrangements?
A mix of flower types works best. Choose two large focal flowers (like peonies, dahlias, or roses), a few medium secondary blooms (like ranunculus or hellebores), and delicate fillers (like baby’s breath or waxflower). Add in trailing foliage such as ivy or eucalyptus to complete the look.
Shop the Look
- Distressed Champagne Metal Compote Bowl | Lita Metal Vase |
- Accent Decor Scallop Compote for Plant and Flowers
- Europe Retro Distessed White Metal Vase
- Floral Foam Blocks
- Chicken Wire for Floral Arrangements
- Stainless Floral Frogs
- Green Floral Tape
- Garden Scissors
- Floret Farm’s A Year in Flowers: Designing Gorgeous Arrangements for Every Season
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Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and
Luther Burbank
medicine to the mind.”