How many stems do I need?

dogsandfrogs

So I've decided I'm DIYing my centerpieces, but I have no clue how many stems I actually need!  The vase I'm using has a 4" diameter opening, and I want that to be essentially covered by flowers.  One of the options I'm considering is doing a single hydrangea or peony since those are about 5 - 6" in diameter and would cover the vase, but I like the look of some other flowers like alstromeria or godetia.

I've tried researching this, but I keep finding the "it depends" answers.  I know it depends on how full you want your vase to look and so on and so forth, but I feel like there has to be some kind of rule of thumb to follow on how bloom sizes vs the area you want to cover translates to how many you need...anyone know a magic trick for it short of just trial and error?

dogsandfrogs

Shucks, I was afraid you were going to say that.  I was really hoping there was some secret trick!

graysquirrel

I agree with pp-- there really is no way that you can get around a trial run-- and believe me, you don't want to! Everything will go much much smoother the day you arrange and you will get a much better sense of what looks good if you practice.

Sue-n-Kevin

I agree with everyone else. But I think more information would help with our answers........

You state the vase has a 4" opening. Is it a 4" glass cube? Is it a tall cylinder vase that is 4" across but 10-12 inches tall? Is it urn shaped? There are so many things that would determine what you will need that knowing it is 4" across is not enough info.

If you know what types of flowers you want, I'd recommend taking your vase to a craft store and playing around with silk flowers. That would give you an idea. Just make sure you have your receipt from the vase with you so they don't think you are stealing it, LOL.

Once you have an idea, you can order fresh flowers online or find a local florist that sells the flowers in bulk that you want. Or, you can get bulk flowers from Costco or Sam's club if you have a card.