Everlastings are very economical. With this purchase, the flowers can be enjoyed for an extended period. These materials can be used for all sorts of floral projects. Here are a few ideas.

During late summer, lavender is in full bloom. Cut the lavender stems when they’re fully colored and the first bud looks like it is ready to open. Through most cut flowers do best if they’re cut in the morning, this isn’t the case for lavender. With this herb, the rule of thumb is to do it later in the day when the dew has dried.

Some of the very best lavender varieties for everlastings include Hidcote, Provence, and Grosso. The stems should air dry in about a week if they’re placed in a dark, airy location. Use the dried stems for everlasting bouquets or lavender fans. These are also very suitable for everlasting wreaths.

If you’re lucky enough to have lots of roses in your garden, harvest and dry these. They’re just perfect for rosebud topiaries.

For this project, purchase one of the styrofoam or oasis balls. This should have a hole in the center so you can insert a dowel or other support. Place the dowel in the hole.

Cut a piece of floral foam to fit inside the container you have selected. Now, insert the other end of the dowel into the floral foam. The next step is to cover the ball with dried rosebuds. For this project, it is best to use rosebuds in assorted, compatible colors.

The easiest way to apply the rosebuds is to start by coating the ball with craft glue. Then, press the rosebud stems into the ball.

Allow the glue to dry. Once that happens, you’re ready to finish decorating the topiary. Tie a bow on the dowel, or wrap it with ribbon if you prefer. Cover the top of the floral foam with moss or other decorative material.

If you have imperfect roses, harvest these and dry the petals for use as an everlasting. This topiary can also be made with dried rose petals. Just press the petals onto the glue until the entire surface of the ball is completely covered.