ORIGINAL TRAINER MATERIAL — PROFESSIONALLY ORGANISED
Trainer Guide & PowerPoint Reference
This guide reorganises the important information from the trainer’s original PowerPoint into clear study topics. Students can review the key explanations first, then open the original slides below for reference.
How students should use this guide
Read the topic summary, observe the professional meaning, compare the examples, and then review the original trainer slides. The slide gallery is preserved as supplied and is included for learning reference.
01
Proportion & Scale
Proportion is the relationship of one part of the design to the other parts and to the whole arrangement. Scale is the overall size of the design compared with the container, flowers, foliage and surroundings.
Flowers should suit the size of the container.
Flowers and foliage should be similar in visual scale.
The arrangement should suit the table, room and display location.
Dining arrangements should not obstruct conversation.
02
Balance
Balance is the visual and physical stability of a floral arrangement. A balanced design appears secure and pleasing to the eye.
Symmetrical: equal visual weight on both sides of a central axis.
Asymmetrical: unequal placement balanced through visual weight.
Physical balance: the arrangement stands safely without falling.
Visual weight is affected by colour, shape, pattern and size.
03
Dominance & Focal Point
Dominance gives importance to one feature. The focal point is the centre of interest that attracts the viewer’s attention first.
Use large flowers or distinctive forms.
Use darker shades or strong colour contrast.
Frame the focal area with foliage or line material.
Direct plant materials toward the focal area.
Accessories may be used carefully to support the theme.
04
Rhythm & Movement
Rhythm creates a pathway for the eye to move through the entire arrangement.
Radiation: stems appear to emerge from one central point.
Repetition: colour, shape, line or space is repeated.
Transition: materials change smoothly and gradually.
Variety: differing components create interest.
Contrast: differences make selected materials stand out.
05
Line, Shape & Form
Line creates visual movement between points. Form is the three-dimensional outline of an arrangement, while shape is its two-dimensional appearance.
Line materials create vertical, horizontal, diagonal or curved direction.
Common geometric forms include circle, oval, triangle, fan, crescent and scalene designs.
Freeform designs are more contemporary and allow greater creative freedom.
Naturalistic designs reflect the natural growth pattern of plants.
06
Pattern & Texture
Texture is the surface quality of plant material and also its visual appearance.
Physical textures may be rough, smooth, velvety, satiny or hairy.
Visual textures may appear fine, airy, lacy, delicate or bold.
Texture affects visual weight and the mood of the design.
Use contrast carefully so the design remains harmonious.
07
Flower Categories
Different flower forms perform different functions in the composition.
Form flowers: distinctive shapes, often used as features.
Mass flowers: rounded flowers that create volume.
Filler flowers: light, airy materials that connect spaces.
Line flowers: materials such as snapdragon or liatris that create direction.
08
Placement & Visual Relationships
Materials should relate correctly to one another and to the container.
Large flowers can overpower tiny blossoms.
Foliage size should remain in scale with the flowers.
Heavier material is usually supported near the base or centre.
Centred dominant material strengthens a formal design.
Counterbalancing can stabilise an asymmetrical composition.
IMPORTANT STUDENT REVIEW
Professional Design Check Before Finishing
✓ Is the arrangement physically stable?✓ Is the scale suitable for the container?✓ Is the focal point clear?✓ Does the eye move through the design?✓ Are flowers and foliage in proportion?✓ Are mechanics hidden and presentation clean?✓ Does the design suit the location and occasion?✓ Is the final work safe to transport and display?