How to Make a Corsage: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

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At Laurel And Leaf, we believe a corsage is more than a floral accessory—it’s a meaningful detail that completes a special moment. Whether you’re preparing for prom, homecoming, weddings, or formal events in Franklin, Tennessee, understanding how a corsage is made gives you a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind it.

In this guide, our professional florists share how to make a corsage step by step, using techniques we rely on in our Franklin floral studio.

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What Is a Corsage?

A corsage is a small, wearable floral arrangement, traditionally worn on the wrist or pinned to clothing. Modern corsages are designed to feel lightweight, elegant, and secure, often featuring premium blooms, textured greenery, and custom ribbon to coordinate with formal attire.

Corsages are most commonly worn for:

• Prom and homecoming

• Weddings and rehearsal dinners

• Mother-of-the-bride or groom flowers

• Galas, fundraisers, and formal events

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Supplies Needed to Make a Corsage

Professional florists use specific tools to ensure corsages last and photograph beautifully:

• Fresh flowers (spray roses, orchids, ranunculus, or mini carnations)

• Accent flowers (wax flower, astilbe, baby’s breath)

• Greenery (Italian ruscus, eucalyptus, fern)

• Floral wire

• Floral tape

• Wristlet band or corsage pin

• Satin or silk ribbon

• Floral clippers or scissors

• Optional: hot glue (used minimally)

How to Make a Corsage: A Step-by-Step Guide by Laurel And Leaf in Franklin, Tennessee

1. Prepare Your Flowers

Trim flower stems to about 1–1.5 inches. Remove excess leaves or damaged petals. If your flowers are delicate, wire them for extra support.

2. Wire and Tape the Blooms

Insert floral wire through the base of each bloom. Fold the wire down and wrap tightly with floral tape. This creates a sturdy stem and helps keep flowers hydrated longer.

3. Design the Arrangement

Choose a focal flower and build around it with accent flowers and greenery. Keep the design compact and slightly asymmetrical for a modern, professional look.

4. Secure the Corsage

Wrap all wired stems together using floral tape. Make sure everything feels secure but not bulky—corsages should be lightweight and comfortable to wear.

5. Add Ribbon

Create a small bow or soft loops with ribbon and attach it using floral wire or a small dot of hot glue. Ribbon adds polish and ties the corsage into the event’s color palette.

6. Attach to Wristlet or Pin

For a wrist corsage, wire the arrangement to the elastic band. For a pin-on corsage, attach a corsage pin horizontally to help distribute weight evenly.

Pro Tips for a Long-Lasting Corsage

• Store finished corsages in a cool refrigerator, away from fruit

• Lightly mist with water before storage

• Make corsages the day of or the night before the event

• Avoid overly fragrant flowers that may irritate skin

Popular Flowers for Corsages

Some flowers perform better than others in corsage designs:

• Spray roses

• Orchids

• Ranunculus

• Lisianthus

• Mini carnations

These blooms are durable, elegant, and photograph beautifully.

When to Choose a Professional Florist

While DIY corsages are fun, a professional florist ensures:

• Flowers stay fresh all night

• Design matches attire perfectly

• Secure construction for dancing and movement

If you’re ordering corsages for a wedding, prom, or large event, professional floral design saves time and guarantees quality.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to make a corsage is a wonderful way to explore floral design and add a personal touch to any special occasion. With the right flowers, tools, and technique, you can create something both beautiful and meaningful.

If you’d rather leave it to the experts, our studio specializes in custom, luxury corsages designed to elevate every moment