Have you ever bought a beautiful ivy topiary with trailing leaves and put it in the perfect spot in your kitchen only to have the leaves turn brown a week later?
Well… you are not alone! Life is busy, and all those good intentions of keeping it well watered and alive suddenly fall short.
I am here to show you how easy it is to make an artificial topiary, and in celebration of Valentine’s Day, let’s make a heart-shaped topiary together.
What is a Topiary?
If you’re unsure what a topiary is, let me explain because they really are a beautiful addition to any decor.
Topiary is the practice of training, cutting, and trimming trees, shrubs, and plants. It is considered an art form, a living sculpture. It takes time, practice, patience, and knowledge to cultivate a living topiary.
Because of the reasons above, they tend to be expensive. If you would like the benefit of enjoying a topiary but don’t have the time and the resources required to care for it, an artificial topiary is a great solution.
Follow along to learn how to make this beautiful heart-shaped topiary, just in time for Valentine’s Day! Also, here is another link for a different style topiary made with eucalyptus leaves.
In fact, by signing up on my email list and following along, I show you how to make different types of topiaries and other useful and interesting crafts and decorating ideas that can be incorporated into your home.
Supplies
- Heart Shape Structure – Dollar Store or https://amzn.to/2Nu2DN2
- Vase – One you own or – https://amzn.to/2NkMVDK
- Faux Greenery – https://amzn.to/2LP6iVk..Hobby Lobby Look for greenery that is a trailing bush. I suggest buying 2 of the same.
- Floral Dry Foam – https://amzn.to/2NnQA3D
- Wood Dowel – https://amzn.to/3648sXW
- Embellishments – Optional
How to Make a Heart Shape Topiary
The Heart Shape
- Purchase this Heart Shape from the Dollar Store
I found the perfect heart shape at the Dollar Store. This will save you time and money. If you cannot find this at your Dollar Store, a heart-shaped wreath form will also work, which can be found on Amazon or your local craft store.
- Remove Confetti
The red confetti is wired onto the plastic heart shape. Clip the wire and begin unwinding the confetti.
- Wrap with Floral Tape
Once the confetti has been removed, cut the nubs with scissors to make the surface as smooth as possible. Next, wrap the heart with floral tape; this will help the red heart form blend with the greenery and make it sturdier.
- Add the Dowel to Heart
Paint the dowel with brown acrylic paint or use a branch from nature. I hot glued the dowel to the heart to temporarily hold it in place while securing it with the string.
- Wrap the Heart to the Dowel using String
I used a figure 8 pattern when wrapping the string to connect the heart to the dowel. - Insert Floral Foam into the Container
- Make Sure the Dry Floral Foam is Secure in the Container
A topiary is relatively tall and, with the added greenery, can be top-heavy, so it is important to have a sturdy base. Notice how I used a solid piece of foam that fit the length of the container.
Make sure it fits snuggly, and if there is wiggle room, add extra floral foam or paper around the edges. Hot glue will not successfully hold it in place, so the mechanics must fit snugly and be sturdy. - Insert the Dowel into the Floral Foam
Insert the dowel into the dry floral foam to the desired height. Hot glue can be added to the dowel for extra security, but it is not necessary.
- Adding the Faux Greenery
Insert the stem of the faux greenery into the dry floral foam - Wrap the Greenery Around Heart Shape
I added the first trailing bush into the floral foam and wrapped it around the dowel and to the left side of the heart shape. Next, insert and wrap the second trailing bush around the dowel and up the heart shape’s right side. Make sure to cover the heart form by manipulating the leaves until you are happy with the results.
- Add Embellishments
I added a couple of faux flowers I had from a previous project for added interest.
Now your topiary is ready to be proudly displayed and just in time for Valentine’s Day. If you are looking for other Valentine’s Day suggestions, you may be interested in this up-cycled photo album.
For more projects from Designgarnish, sign up for emails to make sure you don’t miss out on upcoming posts.
Are you ready to make a topiary? Leave a comment, and if you have any questions, be sure to let me know.
Disclaimer: On my blog Designgarnish, I may sometimes use affiliate links, which means a small commission is earned if you purchase via the link. The price you pay will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.
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Denise says
Great instructions! Can’t wait to try this project! Thank you!
Karen says
Thanks, Denise, for your comment. It really is easy to make!
Kristin says
Thanks so much for linking up at Charming Homes & Gardens! I’m excited to feature you this week!
Karen says
Thank you so much for the opportunity! I look forward to feature…
Karen
Rachel Harper says
Karen,
This is just adorable. I love making topiaries and definitely saved this tutorial. Look for your feature on Wednesday’s Charming Homes & Gardens Link Party.
Karen says
Thank you so much! I appreciate the compliment the opportunity..
Karen
Kippi Ohern says
I adore topiaries. This is such a clever idea for a topiary.
Happy Valentine’s Day,
Kippi
Karen says
I’m with you…I really enjoy making them! Thanks for your comment!
Karen