Last Updated on November 22, 2022
Want to learn how to create fabulous event centerpieces using Deco Beads? It's pretty easy once you know these secrets.
Designing With Water Beads – Learn The Basics Plus Some Extra Tips and Tricks Here
If you want your wedding and event designs to stand out, you need to see this video by J Schwanke featuring Deco Beads.
J teaches you all the basics for hydrating and working with them that you need to know, especially if you have never used them.
Just imagine how easily you can create fabulous event centerpieces by incorporating a few of J’s favorite tips, tricks, and secrets for designing with Deco Beads.
Whether you are a seasoned pro or a relatively new DIY floral designer, this on-point video deals with some issues with prepping and working with water beads.
It even contains a few insider tips and tricks that surprised me!
I think you will enjoy this video whether you do wedding and event work for a living or want ideas for DIY wedding centerpieces.
Take a look and see if you agree!
Deco Bead Basics
As you can see, Deco Beads are easy to work with and add a “wow” factor to weddings and other event designs.
I liked the use of multiple layers and LEDs in the same vase. That was a cool twist.
Now that you’ve seen the basics of working with water beads, I’ll bet you can’t wait to try these design ideas out.
Where Can I Find Deco Beads?
Deco Beads can easily be found online. You can find them on Amazon, and I’ve seen them at Hobby Lobby, and there are other dealers listed on the manufacturers website you can check out as well.
You can also get them through your local florist. Always my favorite choice!
There are other water bead products, but I recommend you stick with the original Deco Beads. From my experience, they work as advertised with no surprises.
Just be sure to follow the package directions, especially when adding the proper amount of Deco Beads and water. If you’re not sure, these conversion charts will help.
Using Deco Beads In Event Designs
Deco Beads are available in various colors, so you’ll be sure to find some that will complement the color palette you are working with.
Be sure to check out the color-fastness of the Deco Beads you use. Stronger colors, like red and orange, are not colorfast. Avoid placing containers directly onto linens to prevent staining them.
For added interest, they also come in various shapes, including stars, hearts, and shells.
Depending on the size of the Deco Beads you are using, you will need to allow 24 to 72 hours to fully hydrate them. Be sure to factor that into your design timeline.
Water Beads or Water Source?
Keep in mind that water beads are for decorative use only. They do not replace the need for a water source when adding fresh flowers. A separate water source still needs to be used.
Clear floral water tubes are the most common water source used for fresh flowers. Containers must be filled with at least a 3 to 4-inch layer of water beads to conceal the tube. This is the best water source to use if you only use a few flower stems, as in the image below.
Some designers will add an inch or two of water directly into the container, but doing that causes the water beads to become transparent below the water level. I’m not too fond of that look, so I prefer water tubes. But either way is acceptable. It’s a matter of personal taste.
If you plan on illuminating your arrangements, you can find LED lights (with and without remotes) at great prices on Amazon, eBay, as well as a host of hobby, craft and party stores.
Most professional florists use Floralytes by Acolyte, but many other private-label brands of lights are available. You won’t have any trouble finding them.
Can Deco Beads Be Reused?
If you want to save and reuse them, drain off any water and store them in a container. You will need to keep them clean and rehydrate them every 8 weeks or so until you are ready to reuse them.
I don’t save hydrated Deco Beads because it’s more cost-effective for me to use new ones.
Disposing of Deco Beads
If I have extra Deco Beads left over, I mix them with some potting soil and add that to the soil in my flower beds. They will degrade naturally over time and help to keep the soil moist.
Avoid disposing of them by flushing or pouring beads down the drain, as they could cause clogs in your drain pipes.
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‘Til next time,
