Artificial Roses 101: Styling Advice and Common Questions

Q & A GUIDE TO ARTIFICIAL ROSES

Fake roses have become a popular choice for those who want lasting beauty without the maintenance of real roses, or who want to decorate with them outside of the rose blooming season. Let's dig in and answer some of the most common questions people ask about artificial roses, covering everything from styling tips to care and creative uses.

FAKE ROSES VS REAL ROSES

When comparing fake roses to real roses, there are several key differences (other than the obvious). Real roses offer a natural beauty and wonderful fragrance that artificial roses cannot replicate, however, they often have a short lifespan, usually lasting only about a week or so. Real flowers also require ongoing care like watering, pruning, and proper sunlight. Artificial roses, on the other hand, are a one-time investment that can last for years! They require minimal maintenance and are available in a wide range of colors and styles, including those not found in nature.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN "REAL TOUCH ROSES" AND OTHER ARTIFICIAL ROSES?

Real touch roses differ from other artificial roses primarily in their texture and how they are made. While everyday artificial roses are often made from materials like silk, polyester, or plastic, real touch roses are made with polyurethane or latex, and replicate rather well the soft, velvety feel of real petals. This attention to detail makes them the most realistic option available. Although they are more expensive than standard fake roses, real touch options are ideal for occasions or decor settings where realism is a must-have!

WHAT ARE REAL TOUCH ROSES?

As previously mentioned, real touch roses are a specific type of artificial rose designed to replicate the look and feel of real roses. These roses are made from high-quality materials like polyurethane, latex, or a blend, which give the flower petals that soft, realistic feel and near natural texture. Unlike traditional silk (fabric) roses, real touch roses are made to feel as lifelike as possible, making them a favorite choice for weddings, upscale events, and anyone seeking a premium floral arrangement.

HOW LONG DO ARTIFICIAL ROSES LAST?

Artificial roses can last for many years if properly cared for. High-quality roses made from durable materials such as silk, latex, or a polyurethane blend can maintain their beauty for up to a decade or even more! Exposure to direct sunlight, dust, and over-handling can affect their lifespan, but with regular cleaning and proper storage, these faux blooms can remain a stunning addition to your decor indefinitely.

HOW DO I CLEAN FAUX ROSES?

Cleaning artificial roses is a simple and straightforward process. For routine cleaning, use a feather duster or a soft, dry cloth to remove surface dust. For deeper cleaning, mix lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap, then use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe the petals and stems. After cleaning, let the roses air dry or pat them gently with a clean towel to avoid water spots — be mindful of darker, richer colors like red and purple as some color bleeding can occur. For intricate designs or delicate arrangements, compressed air can be an effective way to dust some of those hard-to-reach areas.

Check out our guide to cleaning and storing your fake flowers here.

HOW DO I KEEP FAKE ROSES FROM FADING?

After quite some time, a little color fading will naturally occur, though there are a few preventative and proactive measures you can take to keep fading from happening quickly and prolong the life of your faux roses. First, avoid placing them in direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV rays are the number one cause of fading. Using a clear UV-protective spray can add an extra layer of defense against the sun. Second, store artificial roses in a cool, dry place when not in use can help preserve their color and overall condition. By taking these few easy steps, your roses can maintain their vibrant appearance for many years.

CAN ARTIFICIAL ROSES BE USED OUTDOORS?

The simple answer is yes, artificial roses can be used outdoors, however it is important to either:

1. Choose the right type of artificial flower.
   
2. Use them in an outdoor covered area.

Roses made from UV-resistant materials are better suited for outdoor use, as they are designed to withstand sun exposure without fading or degrading quickly. After exposure to the elements, even UV-resistant florals can show wear and tear. If you plan to use regular artificial roses outdoors, place them in covered areas (preferably with shade) to prolong their lifespan. Regular cleaning and UV protective sprays can help maintain their appearance when exposed to the elements.

STYLING WITH FAUX ROSES

HOW CAN I MAKE FAKE ROSES LOOK MORE REALISTIC?

Creating a realistic appearance or arrangement with fake roses is a matter of several simple techniques. The best thing you can do is investing in high-quality artificial roses, real touch roses are the best but premium faux roses will work just fine! Trim the stems to different lengths to create an organic look. Bend and shape the wired stems slightly to replicate the natural curves of real flowers. Adding high-quality faux greenery can also add to the overall effect. As you arrange and add flowers and foliage, be sure to take a step back to eye-ball your design and make sure you aren't over-crowding the arrangement.

HOW DO I ARRANGE ROSES IN A VASE?

Begin by selecting and placing one rose in the center of the arrangement. Then, simply add in and arrange the other roses around the center flower, varying the stem lengths to create depth and dimension. Adding faux or real greenery can provide contrast and fill in any empty spaces, while small filler flowers or berries add texture. Choose a vase that complements the style of the arrangement, and take time to fluff, bend, and shape the roses to ensure they look lifelike and full. For a more in depth guide to flower arranging, you can read our styling tips here.

CAN I MIX ARTIFICIAL ROSES WITH OTHER FAUX FLOWERS?

Of course! Mixing roses with other faux flowers can create a stunning and unique flower arrangement. Roses pair beautifully with most other flowers, however some popular options include peonies, hydrangeas, and orchids, and delicate fillers like lavender and baby’s breath. Incorporating a variety of textures, sizes, and flower colors can really bring your floral design to the next level. When combining different types of flowers, consider the color palette and decor style to create a cohesive and harmonious design.

WHAT GREENERY PAIRS WELL WITH FAKE ROSES?

Artificial greenery plays an essential role in the world of artificial roses and flower design. Popular greenery choices include faux eucalyptus, rich green magnolia leaves, ferns, and pittosporum. Including greenery in your rose arrangements adds depth and texture  — not to mention pairing the right greenery with your artificial roses can making the arrangement look more lifelike.

HOW DO I USE ARTIFICIAL ROSES FOR WEDDING DECORATIONS?

Fake roses are a versatile and cost-effective choice for wedding decorations. They can be used to create stunning bridal and bridesmaid bouquets, wedding displays, boutonnieres, and even floral arches. Being that they are not real flowers, they’ll remain perfect throughout your big day, created far in advance, and even be reused or kept as keepsakes after the wedding. Beyond the ceremony, faux roses can be incorporated into reception table centerpieces, cake decorations, and photo backdrops. The possibilities are endless! Choosing high-quality roses ensures they photograph beautifully and complement the wedding theme, whether it’s classic, rustic, modern, or more! Artificial roses are also perfect for destination weddings.

FAKE ROSES FOR BOUQUETS, DECORATIONS, AND PARTIES

To expand a little on the previous section, artificial roses are perfect for creating bouquets that are both beautiful, long-lasting, and custom/unique. Faux roses provide the flexibility to design arrangements in any color or arrange them in any style. Mixing them with other faux flowers and greenery can add depth and character to the bouquet, making it uniquely yours!

Fake flowers are also an excellent choice for event decorations for the same reasons. Use roses for table centerpieces, hanging installations, or photo booth backdrops and props. These faux botanicals are particularly popular for themed parties, where their vibrant colors and lifelike appearance can make a statement. With endless color and style options, artificial roses can be selected, designed, and crafted to work for just about any event or party.

CAN I INCORPORATE ARTIFICIAL ROSES INTO HOLIDAY DECORATIONS?

Absolutely! Roses are a timeless flower and add a traditional and welcoming feel to holiday decor. Red and white roses are perfect for holiday centerpieces, wreaths and garlands. Smaller roses can be used to decorate Christmas trees or as place settings. Pairing faux roses them with seasonal greenery like pine branches or holly for a festive holiday arrangement.

WHAT CRAFTS CAN I MAKE WITH ROSES?

Artificial roses are a fantastic material for a wide variety of DIY crafts. Popular projects with roses are floral crowns, wall hangings, decorative photo frames and tote bag accents. You can also use roses to on to make your gift wrapping extra special. Faux roses can be repurposed for seasonal crafts as well — think Valentine’s Day wreaths or spring-inspired garlands. By combining roses with ribbons, glitter, or other decorative elements, you can create personalized gifts, dazzling home decor, and custom party favors — if you can think it, you can create it!

CAN YOU DYE FAKE ROSES?

Yes, you can dye or even paint fake roses to customize their color. Fabric dye, acrylic paint, and spray paint are all very effective options, depending on the material. When dyeing or painting, we recommend testing a small area or flower scrap first to ensure the material reacts well and that you get the color and effect you desire. Dying and painting faux flowers allows you to create unique designs (ombre roses!) or match the roses to a specific color scheme.

HOW MUCH ARE FAKE ROSES?

The cost of fake roses varies widely depending on quality and design. Budget-friendly options can cost as little as $5 to $10 per stem, while mid-range options typically range from $12 to $20. High-end roses made from premium materials can cost $20-$50 or more per stem. The price often reflects the quality and realism of the roses, making it important to choose based on your specific needs.

WHERE CAN I BUY HIGH-QUALITY ARTIFICIAL ROSES?

If you’re looking for where to buy premium roses, you have come to the right place! Here at Prestige Botanicals, we specialize in high-quality faux botanicals that are made with attention to detail.

When shopping with us, you can trust that you’re getting the best in the faux flower industry. Plus, with detailed photos available online, you can see the craftsmanship and quality before you buy.

Artificial roses are a versatile, long-lasting, and cost-effective option for a wide range of uses. Whether you’re decorating your home, planning a wedding, or getting crafty with it, these lifelike blooms offer endless possibilities. Have more questions? Let us know — we’re here to help!