Gathering Bloom With Flowers Tuesday, March 1, 2005 Gatherings Bloom With Flowers (NAPSA)—Whether your family gathers for barbecues, buffets or fancy soirees, fresh cut flowers can add a fresh andfestive feel to the occasion. For instance, this Floral Flag can be a “scentsational” centerpiece for a patriotic celebration. J Floral Flag Materials 2 bricks floral foam 40 to 45 stems of fully opened red miniature carnations Flower arrangements can add flair to most any occasion. white miniature carnations of the stripes with carnations, 40 to 45 stems of fully opened 2 large bunchesof fully opened blue statice 3 white votive tea lights One 15” x 10” cookie sheet Floral preservative Directions Step 1—For at least 30 minutes, soak the floral foam in water that has been treated with floral preservative. Step 2—Cutthe floral foam in half lengthwise. Place the halves on the cookie sheet, filling it completely. Step 3—Block out a 6” x 4.5” rectangle in the top left corner of the cookie sheet for the star area. Step 4—Starting at the top right corner of the cookie sheet, insert a row of red carnations, stems trimmed to l-inch in length. Step 5—Insert a row of white carnations, stems trimmed to 1- inch, below the red ones. Repeat the stripes until the top of the sheet is covered. Step 6—Fill in the outer edges stems cut to about 2-inches, so the flowers extend over the rim of the cookie sheet. Step 7—Fill in the 6” x 4.5” star area with blue statice and then make room for the 3 votive tea lights in this area, placing them diagonally across the blue statice. You can also try these decorating ideas: * Create a great first impression in your entrance hall or foyer with a small bouquet in a crystal pitcher or an umbrella standfilled with a few dramatic long stems. Spots on your linen napkins? A single or double stem placed over the spot makes a great stain remover. Or, use fresh stems for napkin rings at your next barbecue. Put a single, short stem in a shot glass or individual mini-vase and set one at each dining room table place setting. For more ideas on ways to use flowers in your home, visit www.flowerpossibilities.com. --- PHOTOS --- File: 20190731-194647-20190731-194644-64103.pdf.jpg --- FILES --- File: 20190731-194644-64103.pdf