Do it Yourself Pine Centerpieces

Overview

A fragrant pine centerpiece is a symbol of the holiday season you, or someone special, will enjoy for many weeks. With changes in ornamentation, they easily adapt to holiday wedding receptions and parties to celebrate the season. There are many variations available for pine centerpieces--red roses, pine cones and berried holly; white ornaments, gold candles and metallic gold ribbons; plaid ribbons, miniature toy soldiers and brass bells; tiny gift-wrapped packages, silk flowers and glass ornaments. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Step 1

Put on lightweight leather, garden gloves protect your hands from the pine branches.

Step 2

Cut the pine branches into 8- to 12-inch pieces with your pruning shears. Remove 2 inches of the needles from the end of each piece with a sharp knife, so it will easily insert into the floral foam.

Step 3

Soak the floral foam brick in water; then secure it in the rectangular floral foam holder with green floral tape.

Step 4

Insert the pillar candle into the center of the floral foam brick, sinking it in at least 2 inches.

Step 5

Starting at the ends, begin inserting your longest pine pieces into the floral foam brick; circling in layers and finishing around the candle with the smallest pieces..

Step 6

Examine the completed pine placement from every angle and fill in any bare spots you see. You want the each pine piece to spray out from the candle for the most pleasing oval shape. Place the centerpiece in a low bowl or on a platter.

Step 7

Wrap ribbon around the base of the candle; create two bows and attach them at the base of the candle with floral wire and wood floral picks.

Step 8

Attach berried holly and pine cones throughout the centerpiece using floral wire and wood floral picks.

Step 9

Give the stems of the roses a fresh cut under water and insert them into the centerpiece. A good suggestion is three roses at each end and one or two at its narrower sides.

Step 10

Add water daily to the floral foam holder of your finished creation to keep it fresh.