How to Create Simple, Pretty Bouquets

Nontraditional Arrangements

Homemade flower frogs -- flower supports with holes or spikes that fit inside another container -- are easily fashioned from common household items. Who knew that a cake cooling rack could become the basis for a hot floral arrangement, or that an old-fashioned saltshaker could enjoy a second life as a vase? Learn how to make the most of everyday items to whip up nontraditional flower arrangements.

Old-Fashioned Vases

Antique store finds make gorgeous vases. At left, short thistle stems pop out of an antique vented container -- a no-brainer way to perk up a bookshelf or table. The container's old-fashioned look adds simple sophistication, and the wide cover holes make arranging flowers quick and easy.

Unusual Displays

Place a few stems in a water-filled Parmesan cheese dispenser for a lively display. Here, three old glass-and-metal shakers support two varieties of yellow daisy mums and white Monte Casino aster. No shakers on hand? Mason jars with holes punched in the lid work equally well.

Step-by-Step How-To

Cooling racks aren't just for cakes anymore. To transform your cooling rack into a unique flower frog, follow these easy steps:
1. Place cooling rack on top of the vase. Add 2 to 3 inches of water.
2. Use clippers to cut rose stems (at an angle) so they just reach the bottom of the bowl when placed in the rack.
3. Space roses evenly around the edge of the bowl.

4. Cut Veronica stems slightly longer and set them in the center of the cooling rack.
5. Fill in between the Veronica and the roses with 'Star Gazer' lilies.