“Moth orchids fused with gold textural leaves forms stylish wearable accessories”
Moth orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis), flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana), tutsan (Hypericum androsaemum), broom (Genista spp.) and succulent (Echeveria agavoides ‘Purple Pearl’) from suppliers of your choice; Oasis Bullion Wire (Gold), Atlantic Never Wilt Glitter Rose-leaf Sprays (Gold) and Oasis Floral Adhesive from Smithers-Oasis North America; Gold leaf pendant, wire earrings and 22-gauge round gold wire from craft store.
Want to impress customers with unique wearable designs fit for the most elegant occasions? Mother’s Day, proms, graduations and recitals are just ahead, so consider adding this stunning jewelry set to your repertoire of floral wearables. The moth orchid focal point of the necklace is expertly enhanced by metallic finishes, botanical embellishments and the delicate movement of swirling bullion wire around the choker frame. Floral designer Lori McNorton shares her tips for creating a coordinating necklace and earrings that are not only trending now but commanding consistent wows.
Necklace
Step 1: Secure a gold leaf pendant to a length of 22-guage gold wire that will form the necklace frame.
Step 2: Bind two small glittered leaves together with bullion wire.
Step 3: Wire the glittered leaf duo atop the leaf pendant.
Step 4: Wire one glittered leaf to each end of the length of 22-guage gold wire. Artfully attach loops and swirls of bullion wire around the necklace frame to create additional interest, dimension and movement.
Step 5: Adhere a moth orchid bloom and bits of other fresh botanicals to the leaf pendant and glittered leaves with liquid floral adhesive.
Earrings
Step 1: Form two identical leaf shapes from wadded masses of gold bullion wire.
Step 2: Wire a small gold glittered leaf atop each bullion-wire leaf form.
Step 3: Secure each layered leaf duo to an earring wire.
Glue moth orchid throats and other small bits of fresh botanicals to each earring form with liquid floral adhesive.
