How to Make a Garland Table Runner

Easy

This video demonstrates how to create a natural garland table runner using fresh greenery. Garland runners are one of the most popular table styling options for weddings and events, creating an elegant flowing design suitable for both rustic and modern themes. This tutorial focuses on building a balanced garland with natural movement, texture and softness for long banquet or trestle wedding tables. 

  • Begin with conditioned greenery and flowers
  • Create a flowing base using layered foliage 
  • Keep movement soft and natural 

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Step by step arrangement guide:

  • Condition the foliage overnight before you start working with them
  • Gather your tools, i.e. Florist Scissors, Twine required. 

  • Using the Soft Ruscus as a base, start by cutting the end of the stalk that has no foliage on - leaving you with a blunt end. 

  • To begin, overlap the soft ruscus and twist the stems of soft ruscus together. You can use the green twine to secure the stems together at both ends - make sure you leave the ends of the twine long so you can tie in other greenery later.

  • If you are looking to create a thicker 'double' garland, repeat the process and intertwine it with the first, securing with green twine! 

  • To add the Eucalyptus to the base of Soft Ruscus, cut the Eucalyptus into smaller branches and bind the greenery into the base with the green twine that you have originally created. 

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When Should I make a garland runner?

We recommend creating the garlands 1-2 days before the event. Store in a cool envionment until required. 

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Who is this Guide for?

  • DIY wedding customers 
  • Event organisers 
  • Student florists 
  • Anyone creating garland runners and greenery decor 

 

Common Questions:

  1. How many bunches of Soft Ruscus should I use? For single thickness, 1 bunch of soft ruscus would be sufficient for 6ft. For double thickness, 2 bunches of soft ruscus would be sufficient for 6ft garland and so on. 
  2. What greenery works best for table runners? Ruscus, eucalyptus, mixed seasonal foliage all work beautifully for garland runners. 

  3. Can beginners make table runners? Yes, absolutely. Garlands are beginner friendly and ideal for DIY weddings and events. 

  4. How long will a garland runner last? A soft ruscus garland can approx last between 1-2 weeks. Other greenery added like eucalyptus and asparagus can wilt or dry out quicker as they tend to be more thirsty. You can mist the garlands whilst in situ to extend their shelf life. 

  5. Should garlands be made in advance? Yes, creating the garland 1-2 days in advance. 

  6. What flowers work best in garland runners? You can incorporate flowers into a table runner using water vials and bud vases (providing a water source will extend the longevity of the flowers). Roses, carnations, chrysanthemums, gypsophila, waxflower, calla lilies and other seasonal flowers all pair beautifully with greenery garlands.