I like to begin by building the heather collar.  This armature should be the diameter you desire for the finished bouquet.  Too large, and the bouquet will fall through.  Too small, and it will disappear under the flowers.  Wind the heather stems together in a circular form using your 26 gauge wire to hold it in place.  I found that it took 6 stems to create a 7" diameter circlet.   To attach the armature to the bouquet, you will use three taped 18 gauge wires.  Bind the wires to the heather at three points to create stability.  Set the wired armature aside as you create your bouquet.

Helpful hint:  To avoid the last minute rush, you can create the collar up to
three days before
assembling the bouquet.

Each blossom in this bouquet should be cleaned and hydrated the day before assembly.  You will find this will extend the finished life of the bouquet.  To clean the blossoms, remove all lower foliage - leaving just a few leaves at the top of the stem.  Also, carefully remove any thorns.  Then, cut under water and rehydrate in a warm water/preservative solution.  Let the flowers sit at room temperature for 1 - 2 hours.  Then, refrigerate if desired.

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Step 3:  BEGINNING THE BOUQUET

The bouquet is started with a cluster of blossoms.  Gather 3 roses, 1 lisianthus, a bit of heather and a tulip together in your hand.  Hold the stems loosely to create a soft looking nosegay.  If you clutch too tightly, you will find that you create a stiff, uptight bouquet.