Floral foam pieces are primarily attached to each other using specialized floral foam joiners or screws. These tools are designed to securely connect foam blocks, creating larger bases or custom shapes for floral arrangements.
Method for Joining Floral Foam
To effectively join two pieces of floral foam, you utilize a specific type of connector that is inserted by twisting or "screwing" it into the foam material.
The process, as demonstrated in the provided reference, involves:
- Obtaining a Floral Foam Joiner: These are specialized connectors, often made of plastic, designed to grip floral foam securely.
- Positioning the Foam: Align the two pieces of floral foam you intend to join.
- Inserting the Joiner: You then screw the joiner up into the foam. The video specifically mentions "you just screw it up into the second piece of foam." This action means twisting the joiner into the foam, typically bridging the two pieces or being embedded to provide an anchor for connection.
- Self-Stopping Mechanism: A key feature of these joiners is their design to "stop itself when it gets to the center." This ensures the joiner is embedded securely within the foam without piercing through to the other side, providing a strong internal connection.
This method allows for a clean and stable attachment, crucial for constructing larger and more complex floral designs.
Why Use Floral Foam Joiners?
Utilizing floral foam joiners offers several advantages in floral design:
- Creating Larger Bases: When a single block of floral foam isn't sufficient for a grand arrangement, joiners allow you to seamlessly connect multiple blocks to form a larger foundation.
- Custom Shapes: For unique floral designs requiring specific contours, joiners enable the creation of multi-part foam structures that can then be carved or shaped as needed.
- Enhanced Stability: A secure connection between foam pieces ensures the entire arrangement remains stable, preventing sections from shifting or collapsing, especially when saturated with water.
Tips for Effective Attachment
For best results when attaching floral foam:
- Hydrate Wet Foam: If using wet floral foam, ensure both pieces are fully saturated before joining. This maintains the foam's integrity and prevents crumbling during insertion.
- Gentle Pressure: While "screwing" the joiner, apply consistent but gentle pressure to avoid tearing or damaging the foam. The joiner's design does most of the work.
- Strategic Placement: Consider where the joiners will provide the most structural support for your intended design.
By using these specialized joiners, floral designers can expand their creative possibilities and build robust foundations for elaborate floral displays.
