Wholesale Artificial Flowers
By: John Garcia | Date Posted: July 16, 2022
Table of Contents
In addition to their large variety and various materials, wholesale artificial flowers can be difficult to choose from because they all have benefits and drawbacks. Artificial flowers that are as realistic as possible are what we look for at wholesalers.
Raw materials and manufacturing processes are the primary factors that determine artificial flower prices. Labor costs in China and Thailand are relatively low, so manufacturers mostly import artificial flowers to the USA from these countries.
Because of the base material and the manufacturing process, a seemingly inexpensive freshly cut flower can become extremely expensive as an artificial replica. If you canât get your hands on fresh flowers, artificial flowers can be a good alternative, although the price of artificial flowers isnât always competitive with fresh flowers.
Donât forget the stems when purchasing artificial flowers since they make the flowers look more realistic. In this case, prefer taped wire stems when placing them among other flowers, as they can hide behind traditional latex and silk stems.
Silk and latex stems feature a plastic coating, while foam stems are taped and visually more appealing when placed among other flowers.
Hereâs what you need to know about artificial flowers
Silk flowers
Silk flowers are believed to have originated in China centuries ago, but the knowledge didnât reach Italy until the 12th century.
Our first choice when buying silk flowers as they are so realistic, and they are always very popular due to the fact they look so real. Silk flowers are indeed more expensive than fresh blooms, but donât let this discourage you, they last for a much longer time.
These days, manufacturers typically make silk flowers from fabrics such as rayon, polyester, or cotton instead of silk, enabling them to add details like veins to leaves.
Some stems have flocking applied, such as gerberas, and roses can have thorns to better mimic a fresh bloom. The stems vary from dark green thin stems that are fine if they wonât show up as well as more realistic fleshy stems.
We start by purchasing plain white rayon or polyester plant material, then prep and dye it into basic petal shapes. These shapes are molded into more realistic forms, which are then finished by hand to add additional details and colors.
Since manufacturers heat silk flowers during production, they are less likely to fray compared to other fabrics. Fraying does occur, but it is usually minor and not a severe problem.
It is well worth considering silk flowers instead of fresh blooms since they are available in so many different shades and varieties.
Latex flowers
A latex flower is made from a mold of a living plant or flower, so the flowers look very realistic. The lack of uniformity in the outlines of flowers and veins in petals is apparent due to the liquid nature of latex.
Traditionally, suppliers refer to latex flowers as real touch or fresh touch, but this is not a trading name. Latex flowers are described as real touch or fresh touch by individual manufacturers.
When made to resemble a fresh flower with fleshy petals, they look most convincing when they have thicker petals and realistic stems. Calla lilies, oriental lilies, orchids, and roses are usually available.
Although other varieties are becoming increasingly common, you will have to search a little harder for them. People with latex allergies should not use them in bouquets.
Foam flowers
As with all artificial flowers and foliage, quality can vary, they are usually available in a good range of colors and shapes. Youâll most likely find roses in these colors though wholesale suppliers also stock peonies, carnations, and calla lilies.
The majority of foam flowers are now colorfast, unlike when they first appeared on the market. Before purchasing, inspect the fabric, especially for bridal designs, to avoid staining your best outfit.
They arenât the most attractive or realistic, but they work well when mixed with silk flowers to hide the stems.
However, buttonholes are very popular with these, and they are very easy to work with. If youâre new to making bouquets with artificial or fresh flowers, consider hiding or binding the stems with ribbon.
Plastic Flowers
They are perfect outside, however, they arenât realistic in bouquets or arrangements. It is common to find plastic flowers on Christmas wreaths, usually in brash colors.
Plastic flowers appear more realistic with a waxy or silky finish compared to standard silk flowers, which often have dull matte finishes.
Smaller clusters work best for achieving finer detail than possible with larger silk flower arrangements. Plastic flowers are also a good choice if the natural flower has a silky or waxy appearance.
You can find plastic flowers with silk leaves, as well as foliage like asparagus fern and dusty miller, coated for a furry texture.
Itâs important not to overlook plastic flowers and foliage, which can add texture to any design by acting as fillers.
FAQâs
In terms of artificial flowers, what is the best material?
The most realistic flowers are silk ones. These fabrics blend cotton and polyester, undergo dyeing and heat molding, and feature meticulous detailing. The soft matte finish mimics the movement of real flower petals thanks to the materialâs soft matte finish.
Artificial flowers vs. silk flowers: whatâs the difference?
Plastic and nylon are often used in the production of fake flowers. Silk and latex are often used to make more realistic flowers and plants. The quality of artificial flowers depends on the price. It is often cheaper to buy artificial flowers of lower quality than silk flowers.
Thank you for reading!