How to arrange flowers using the grid technique

Follow my step by step guide to make your own beautiful arrangement.

Step 1. Choose your container. 

Start by choosing a vase that suits your flowers.  As a guide, your tallest stem should be one and a half times the height of the container. 

Next, think about where the design will sit. Is it front facing on a mantelpiece or viewed from all sides as a table centre? This will help you pick the right shape and style of vase. 

For this arrangement, I’ve chosen an antique-style waterproof urn.

Step 2. Prepare your flowers, foliage and & container. 

Choose a mix of foliage and flowers with a balance of: 

• Focal blooms – the main stars of the design 

• Linear or filler flowers – for height and structure 

• Foliage – to add movement, shape, and softness.

In this example, I’m using eucalyptus (Populus and Cinerea), red ilex berries, and carnations. 

Create your grid. 

Use pot tape to make a simple 3×3 grid across the top of the vase. You can use Sellotape or even create a natural grid with twigs for a more sustainable choice.

Keep the spacing even — avoid adding too many strips, as you’ll want a little wiggle room for the stems.

Add water.

Once your grid is secure, fill the vase with clean, fresh water.

Step 3. Create the arrangement.

Start with the foliage.

Begin by building your foliage structure. Weave different types of eucalyptus through the grid, working all the way around the vase to create balance, shape and gentle movement.

Add the ilex berries.

When the foliage feels even and well-shaped, prepare your ilex stems. Cut each one at a 45-degree angle and place around the container at regular intervals. Step back and check the balance before continuing.

Place your focal flowers.

Add your focal blooms— carnations—at varying heights. Tuck some slightly deeper into the design and let others sit a little taller to create depth, interest, and a natural, garden-inspired feel.

Stand back and adjust.

Turn the vase and look at it from all sides. Make small tweaks: shorten any stems that feel too tall and adjust placements until the whole arrangement feels relaxed, natural and harmonious.

Step 4. Taking Care of your arrangement

To keep your flowers, stay fresh for as long as possible:

 • Top up with fresh water every day so the stems stay hydrated. 

• Keep the arrangement away from direct sunlight and heat, which can cause flowers to fade more quickly. 

• Remove any blooms that start to wilt and replace them with fresh stems.