PORCHE TIPS AND TRICKS :: SELECTING & ARRANGING STEMS IN VASES

We absolutely love using faux stems and unique vases to really make a statement in any space — a kitchen island, a console table, a centerpiece on a dining room table, or for coffee table decor. Adding faux stems can create a lively element while bringing height to a space; and a statement vase can add so much texture and dimension. However, it can be a difficult task to select the perfect stems and arrange them in a vase to create the full effect. We are here to bring you our best tips for faux stems and styling them!

Tip 1:: You’ll first want to pick the perfect stems for your vase! There are endless options — but we like selecting stems based off the season and time of year. We love using more florals in the spring and summer, while sticking to more dried, textured stems in the fall and winter. If you are wanting something more year round, opt for a simple and neutral greenery.

Tip 2:: The next step is to have the right number of faux stems for the vase you’ve selected. For vases with larger lips, you will need more stems to create a full look. For smaller lipped vases, you will only need a couple in order to fill the vase. In order to find the perfect number of stems, try playing with different numbers to see how many give a full look without looking too crammed or overfilled.

Tip 3:: Don’t cut the stems to fit in the vase! This is a mistake we see often when arranging stems. Often times, faux florals and branches will come with very long stems in order to fit in a variety of vases. This throws people off and they turn to scissors to trim the stems — however, the stems are often so difficult and rough to cut! Instead, try bending and folding the long part of the stem in order to make the stem shorter and the perfect height for your vase. This way, you will be able to use the stem in a larger, taller vase down the road if you’d like to!

Tip 4:: Once you have the stems at the correct height for the vase, you will place them inside. The stems will most likely look stiff and unnatural. In order to create a more natural, organic look, you will want to bend and play with the branches. You will keep doing this, pulling the stems outward and creating natural bends until you achieve the look you want.

Tip 5:: To add more dimension and contrast to your arrangement, you can add a variety of stems in your vase. Try mixing colors, textures, and types of faux stems in your vase for more interest.

We love how a vase filled with faux stems can transform any space and bring liveliness, height, interest, and dimension! Faux stems are also so convenient because they last forever and can be used in multiple spaces with different vases for years to come. Here are some of our favorite faux stems and vases we love to use: