Last Updated on August 3, 2022
Cut Stems, Not Fingers. – The Right Way To Use A Floral Knife
When it comes to tools of the trade, a floral designer’s most indispensable tool in their toolbox is a good floral knife.
It does surprise me, however, how few aspiring floral designers know how to handle and work with one properly.
When using a razor-sharp blade, some people become a little skittish about possibly cutting themselves.
But trust me, once you learn how to use a floral knife properly when working with flowers, I think you’ll find it very safe and easy to use.
Not to mention it’s much quicker as well.
In this video, floral designer John McDonald demonstrates how to hold and cut stems properly with a floral knife.
With this information and a little practice, you’ll cut flowers (and not your fingers) like a pro in no time! Watch and learn.
So…think you’ve got it? It’s easy.
There are two things to remember when cutting flowers with a knife.
- Hold the knife steady and pull through with your arm.
- Always cut with a sharp blade.
Follow that advice, and with a little practice, you’ll nail it.
Don’t worry if you break off a flower head or crimp a stem, those mistakes will happen. They happen to all of us. Just consider it a part of your ongoing floral education.
Okay, now that you know the how and why behind using a floral knife, you’re probably wondering
What’s The Best Floral Knife To Use?
The answer is simple. The best floral knife is the one you feel comfortable using.
For example, the one used in the video is a Clauss floral knife. It’s a good, lightweight utility knife. They come packed ten in a box and are inexpensive. We’ve used them in our shop for years.
But for me, the Victorinox floral knife is my favorite. Victorinox is famously known for its line of Swiss army knives, which also work well for stem cutting.
Their floral knife is a heavier, high-quality folding knife. I own several straight-blade knives and have had them for at least 15 years, if not longer. They just flat-out last.
But you don’t need to purchase a knife designed for floral use. Any knife you’re comfortable using will do the job.
Just be sure it does not have a serrated edge. Serrated-edged blades can damage stems and prevent water uptake.
How To Sharpen A Floral Knife
I recommend a good floral knife sharpener, as blades can dull quickly. Cutting flowers with a razor-sharp blade will make the job much faster and easier. Along with a floral knife, it is one of the indispensable floral tools that every designer should have.
We have several Füri Ozitech diamond-finger sharpeners in the shop, and I carry one in my traveling toolkit.
Since I rarely use floral clippers when designing, my sharpener sees a lot of use. Sharpening my knife is the first thing I do before I begin any floral arrangement.
I’m Not Comfortable Using A Floral Knife. What Tools Can I Use Instead?
Floral clippers, shears, or scissors could be used. Clippers or shears do come in handy when cutting thick or woody stems.
However, since most flower stems are softer, clippers, shears, or scissors can damage them and prevent water uptake.
It’s also difficult to keep the blades in top shape without taking them apart to clean and sharpen them.
That’s why I don’t recommend them for use with cut flowers. You will be better off using a floral knife.
If you’re interested, you can find the full array of tools and supplies we use daily in our shop over at Greenfield Flower Shop’s storefront page on Amazon.
I thought I’d throw in that shameless plug, just in case you’re interested.
A Word Of Caution
Accidents can occur using the proper technique while working with a sharp knife. Working with any sharp cutting tool can be dangerous.
Learning how to cut flowers with a knife properly should help prevent accidents, however, be ready if something goes wrong.
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