The Essential Tool for Every Florist: A Guide to Choosing the Right Shears
When you're just starting out with floral arranging, it can be tempting to rush out and buy every tool and gadget you come across. But here at The Wallflower Academy, we believe in starting simple and making the most of what you already have. That's why we highly encourage our new students to use items they already have in their kitchen or garden. Scissors, vessels, pitchers, and even craft supplies like Scotch tape can all be repurposed for your floral designs as you get familiar with the process.
However, as you progress in your floral arranging journey, there’s one tool that will quickly become indispensable: a good pair of shears.
Why Shears Are Essential
Shears are to florists what brushes are to painters—they're the tool that shapes your vision into reality. Unlike regular scissors, which can crush and damage stems, shears are specifically designed to make clean, precise cuts that help keep your flowers fresh for longer. They’re strong enough to cut through woody stems and delicate enough to handle soft blooms.
What to Look for in Floral Shears
When selecting floral shears, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Sharpness: Look for shears that can make clean cuts with minimal effort. This reduces the risk of damaging the stems, which can lead to shorter vase life for your flowers.
Comfort: Floral arranging can be time-consuming, so it’s important to choose shears with ergonomic handles that feel good in your hand, especially if you’re working with a lot of materials.
Durability: Invest in a pair of shears made from high-quality materials like stainless steel. They’ll last longer and maintain their sharpness over time.
Our Recommended Shears
If you’re ready to invest in a good pair of floral shears, we’ve got a recommendation to get you started:
Pruning Shears - Known for their durability and ease of use, these shears are perfect for beginners and seasoned florists alike. [Buy on Amazon]
Support Your Local Flower Market
While having the right tools is essential, let’s not forget where those beautiful blooms come from! We always encourage our students to visit their local flower market and support farmers and growers in their town. Not only does this help sustain local businesses, but you’ll often find fresher, more unique flowers than you would at a supermarket or big-box store.
So next time you’re gathering supplies for your floral arrangements, take a stroll through your local market. You never know what treasures you might find!
Final Thoughts
Starting out in floral design doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By using what you have and investing in key tools like shears, you can create stunning arrangements without breaking the bank. And remember, the journey is just as important as the destination—so take your time, experiment, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
Have you found your perfect pair of shears? Or do you have a favorite flower market you love to visit? We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, or hit reply to this email.
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