The stem is not the number that matters
Every listing here gives a height, and on its own that height tells you almost nothing. What decides whether something looks right is the relationship between the stem, the vase you put it in and the space above it. Three measurements of your own and you will never have to guess at one of my numbers again.
How I measure
The height on every product page is the whole stem, tip to cut end. Not the bloom, not the part that shows above a rim — the entire length of the thing that arrives in the box. Bouquets and posies are measured the same way, from the top of the tallest bloom to the bottom of the stems.
Where a piece includes its own container, the height already includes it. That number is the finished height on your table, so there is no arithmetic to do — skip to the placements further down.
Everything is given in centimetres and inches. On pieces that come in more than one size, tap the option you want and the measurements for that one appear underneath it.
The proportion that works
A useful starting point is a stem length of roughly one and a half to two times the height of the vase. The height above the table will also depend on how deeply the stems sit, their angle and the shape of the flower heads. Use the ratio to begin, then judge the balance of the whole arrangement.
As a starting point, a 20 cm (7.9 in) vase can be paired with stems around 30–40 cm (11.8–15.7 in) long. For a 12 cm (4.7 in) bud vase, try stems around 18–24 cm (7.1–9.4 in); for a 40 cm (15.7 in) floor vase, around 60–80 cm (23.6–31.5 in). These are only starting points. Consider the shape of the flowers, how deeply the stems sit in the vase and the size of its opening. Make sure the finished arrangement is stable before placing it on display.
Width matters too. Some loose arrangements spread almost as wide as they stand tall, while others are much narrower. Check the listed width where available and leave enough room around the flowers.
Three measurements to take
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Your vase, base to rim
Stand it on the table and measure straight up to the lip. Multiplying the vase height by 1.5 and 2 gives you a starting range for stem length, not a fixed rule. Adjust for the shape of the flowers and how deeply they will sit.
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The opening, across the inside
The width of the opening affects how many stems will fit and how they spread. A narrow neck can support a few stems, while a wider opening may need a fuller arrangement or additional support. The number depends on the thickness and shape of the stems you choose.
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The gap above the surface
Measure from the surface to whatever is above it — a shelf, a mirror, a wall cabinet or the underside of a picture. Leaving some space above the arrangement usually looks more balanced; about two thirds of the available height can be a useful starting point.
Write the three measurements down. They will make it easier to compare the sizes on each product page and choose with less guesswork.
Finished heights by place
These are suggested finished heights, measured from the surface with the vase or container included. They are starting points, not fixed rules; the right size depends on your furniture, available space and the shape of the arrangement.
Dining table
Under 35 cm (13.8 in) can help keep sightlines open so people can see each other across the table.
Coffee table
30–45 cm (11.8–17.7 in). Viewed from above as much as from the side, so consider the overall width too.
Console or hallway
50–75 cm (19.7–29.5 in). A taller arrangement can work well when displayed against a wall.
Mantelpiece
40–60 cm (15.7–23.6 in). Try placing the arrangement slightly off-centre if that suits the space.
Open shelving
Leave visible space above the flowers. Around two thirds of the available shelf height is a useful starting point.
Floor
80–120 cm (31.5–47.2 in) in total can give a floor display some presence beside furniture.
Bedside or desk
25–40 cm (9.8–15.7 in). Leave enough usable space on the surface for everyday things.
Bathroom
25–35 cm (9.8–13.8 in). Keep the arrangement away from direct water spray and prolonged dampness.
When you are between two sizes
If you are choosing between two sizes, think about the vase opening, the flower shape and how much of each stem will remain visible. A longer stem may offer more flexibility if that particular design can be shortened, but not every stem has the same construction.
Some artificial stems can be trimmed with suitable wire cutters. Where trimming is possible, cut a little at a time and check the stem in your vase between cuts. Do not force or cut rigid pieces, and avoid ordinary scissors on wired stems. If you are unsure about a particular design, email me before ordering. The rest of what to look at is set out separately.