Recently I just reorganized my tool kit and was left with such a great feeling. It was like the closet organization equivalent for a florist. I’m sure in a few weeks time, it will be back to half rolled tapes and loose boutonniere pins, but for now it feels really good to have just the essentials in there. I put together a checklist for the florist or the hobbyist with some new found favorites and some old faithfuls.

This list is not meant to be exhaustive. There are so many other tools and trinkets that could make their way on this list, but think of this as your back to basics check list. If you had to grab 12 things and put them in your tool kit (without knowing the project or ask) what would they be? These are mine.

1. Canvas Tool Bag // My absolute FAVORITE. I love this bag so much. I’ve only had it for a few weeks, but it’s incredible and holds so much. I have another one to keep all of my clippers and scissors in. It’s washable, not too bulky or heavy…it’s a win.
2. Chicken Wire // A really cost effective option for chicken wire. I used this on a recent wedding and only used one roll.
3. Florist Shears // These are great for both the hobbyist and the professional designer.
4. Wire Cutters // You’ll need these both for chicken wire and your florist wire. If you’re in to faux floral, these are a must have for those as well.
5. Waterproof Floral Tape // For grids on vases, wrapping bouquets, and so much more. This is a must.
6. Florist Wire // Helpful for stabilizing and wrapping stems. As a hobbyist, you may not reach for it as often but it’s so helpful to have.
7. Florist Knife // I’ve recently started to use a knife more and this one is great. I still almost always grab for clippers, but I’ve enjoyed using this one.
8. Fabric Scissors // These are for cutting ribbon. I like to have a designated pair of fabric scissors in my bag so Im not stuck using pruners to cut delicate ribbon.
9. First Aid Kits // Never leave home without one…
10. Gloves // Processing flowers can be rough on the hands whether you’re working with 24 or 2400 stems. Make sure to keep your hands protected!
11. Zip Ties // The swiss army knife of floral design. You’ll likely find these more helpful as a professional, but worth keeping around at any level of design.
12. Flower Frog // My favorite mechanic and what I use most often for arranging in vases.