Essential Items every Florist needs for their Toolkit

When you're working on-site to create stunning floral designs for events, having a well-prepared toolkit is crucial. Here’s the actual list that I use to ensure I'm ready for any challenge:

Tools and Supplies

• Florist Scissors/Knife – For clean, precise stem cuts.

• Secateurs – Essential for cutting thicker stems and branches.

• Wire Cutters – For trimming floral wire or removing stubborn tags.

• Ribbon Scissors – Dedicated for ribbon and fabric cutting.

• Floral Tape – Ideal for securing stems and creating boutonnières or corsages.

• Floral Wire (Various Gauges) – For structural support and securing arrangements.

• Cable Ties/Zip Ties – Strong and quick for securing large installations.

• Adhesive Dots or Floral Glue – For intricate work like corsages and floral jewelry.

• Chicken Wire – Adds structure to large installations.

  
  

Event Setup Essentials

• Ladders or Step Stools – For elevated installations, I need a ladder for even the simplest floral arch set up.

• Clamps – To secure backdrops or florals to signs and structures.

• Fishing Line – Strong and invisible, perfect for last minute fixes, I never leave home without a roll in my kit

  
  

Personal and Practical Additions

• Apron with Pockets – To keep tools handy and your outfit clean, or if you're like me you'll choose your event day wardrobe based on the pockets.

• Gloves – Protect your hands from sap, glue, and thorns.

• First Aid Kit – For minor cuts or scrapes, I carry band-aids in every handbag just incase.

• Snacks and Water – Stay fuelled during long setups.

• Notebook and Pen – For last-minute notes or client requests.
  

Cleanup Supplies

• Garbage Bags – For easy cleanup of trimmings and waste.

• Broom and Dustpan – To leave the venue spotless.

• Wipes or Towels – For cleaning surfaces or drying hands.

• Drop sheet - Makes working on site a lot easier to clean, place them under your work area and just fold them up, mess included, for a quick clean exit

  
  
  
  

By keeping your kit stocked and ready, you’ll be prepared for anything and everything that can happen on a busy event site!