How to Make a Floating Centerpiece with Poinsettias

Materials for the floating centerpiece include:

• Poinsettia plant
• Clear glass bowl like a punch bowl
• Fresh cranberries
• Matches or a utility lighter
• Kraft paper to protect your workspace (optional)

Tools for the floating centerpiece include:

• Sharp scissors or pruning shears
• Gloves (optional)

Tip: If you're allergic to latex, you'll want to wear gloves while working with poinsettias. The plants are euphorbias and the sap that they leach from the stems may irritate your skin and cause an allergic reaction.

This project is perfect for a clear glass punch bowl or decorative crystal bowl. Due to the size of the bowl, it's easiest to make the arrangement on the table where it will be displayed. Cover the area with kraft paper, if needed, and keep a towel handy to wipe up spills.

Begin by filling your punch bowl with room-temperature water.

Tip: When working with crystal or cut glass bowls, always use room temperature water, never hot or cold. Temperature extremes can cause some types of glass to crack.

Place a cupful of cranberries to float in the water in the punch bowl.

Tip: Once the cranberries are used in the centerpiece, they should not be consumed.

Next, cut a poinsettia bloom from the plant. You'll want about a four-inch stem to support the bloom.

Using a match or utility lighter, run the cut end of the stem over the flame for a few seconds. Once the stem is sealed, place it in the bowl filled with water.

Place poinsettia stems in punch bowl, continuing to seal stems and create an arrangement.

Place poinsettia stems in bowl. Complete the arrangement with votives and more fresh cranberries scattered on the tabletop.

Clean up your supplies and materials, set your table, and enjoy your holiday poinsettia centerpiece.