How to Make a Wrist Corsage

Most people purchase wrist corsages from a florist, however it isn't hard to learn how to make your own floral wrist corsage. Wrist corsages are lovely and elegant flowers worn around the wrist, usually set at the top of the back of the hand. They're worn on formal occasions, such as dances, weddings, prom, or by the guest of honor at a formal party. Making your own gives you the opportunity to save money, and use your own creativity in choosing the flower or flower combination you want. Wrist corsages are in style now, and draw attention and appreciation from all who see them. Especially nice in the springtime, any time a corsage is worn, it makes the wearer think of spring and feel special.

Corsages can be made with either silk or fresh flowers. Keep in mind the timing of the event if using fresh, as the flowers should be kept cool until just before the corsage is worn, to keep them fresh and avoid wilting.

There are some variations on ways to make wrist corsages, but essential items include:

• The bracelet. This can be a length of wide ribbon or material, an elastic bracelet made of any type of beads on elastic string, or a pre-made corsage band (available from florists or floral supply online retailers). Choose whatever is best for you. This is the part that will go all the way around the wrist of the wearer.
• The base for the flowers. This won't be necessary if using ribbon or material, but will need to be included if the bracelet part is beaded. Essentially, this is a piece of ribbon, plastic, or a pre-made corsage base (from a florist or floral supply online retailer). It's the place you will attach the flowers, and it is first attached to the bracelet part.
• Floral tape and floral glue. Floral tape is green, and made for taping flowers. Floral glue is a special glue for fresh flowers that will stand up to cool temps without cracking (unlike glue gun glue). You may also choose to use some thin bendable wire, but this may not be needed. Depending on your time, preference, and the number of flowers you will be using, you may not need the glue, and the tape may be enough. But you will need the tape nonetheless. Both are available from florists or online retailers.
• The flowers. It's a good idea to choose one or two main flowers and some additional floral accents such as baby's breath or smaller flowers or leaves. The accents are not necessary for a very simple corsage, but they do make a corsage look more elegant.

What to Do:

1. If using ribbon, cut a length about 7" long. Cut the ends at a point to make them look finished. If you already have an elastic band, attach the base for the flowers across the middle of the band with glue or tie it on with wire.
2. If using ribbon, cut a small hole in the center of the center of the piece of ribbon.
3. Cut the stem of the main flower blooms about ½" from the flower, and tape the stems with floral tape to hold them securely. You may choose any lovely flower you like.
4. If using ribbon, thread the stem through the hole in the ribbon. For the simplest corsage, all you need to do now is tie it around the wrist of the lucky recipient.
5. For the premade flower base, glue the flower to the base gently, using care not to overuse the floral glue. Add accents around the blooms as you like, gluing them into place as you go. Allow it to dry for about 15 minutes. It's ready to wear.