Gajras are traditionally floral wristbands worn throughout the subcontinent as an expression of joy. They are frequently seen adorning the wrists on most celebrations, and are most closely associated with Pakistan’s festive wedding season! To check out our collection of Garjra’s and other floral jewelry, click here. They’re also a really fun activity to try and create, and here’s our step by step guide on getting it done:
What you will need:
- Flowers of your choice
- A few pieces of foliage
- Floral Wire (known as Gajra Wire locally)
- Ribbon of your choice to go on the wrist
- Glue Gun
- Scissors
- Gypsophilla
STEP 1: PREPARE FLOWERS
Start by preparing your chosen flowers and foliage by cutting the stems down – remove any thorns (if working with roses) roses and any leaves or petals that look a little unsightly.
In the example below, we’re using fresh Chrysanthemums and Gypsophila stems to create a traditional Gajra.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE WIRE
Take a piece of floral wire that goes approximately two-thirds the way around your wrist. Fold one end of the wire backward to create a looped ending. Thread the ribbon into the wire towards one end (be sure to leave a sufficient amount of ribbon on that end, as this will be used to secure the Gajra to the wrist).
STEP 3: ADD THE FLOWERS
The flowers are then threaded along the wire into the kind of arrangement required. In the case of gypsophila, small florets are taken from the main stem and wrapped around the wire. Secure it with a hot glue gun. Add foliage at the back of the flower buds.
STEP 4: FINISH THE RIBBON
Glue is added to the underside of the Gajra and Wire, and the ribbon is smoothly pasted across the bottom. The ribbon is what will be making contact first with the wrist! Thread the open end of the ribbon through the wire and secure it again by creating another loop in the wire. Be careful again to leave sufficient ribbon for tying off the Gajra! Cut off the remaining ribbon.
STEP 5: ATTACH TO YOUR WRIST
Place the arrangement on your wrist, wrap the ribbon around your wrist finishing with a bow on the bottom side.
STEP 6: ADMIRE YOUR HANDY WORK AND ENJOY
Thank you for reading! We would love to see what you create, and share it with our community as well!
Do send us your creations by tagging our Instagram page @gul.baan or by email at hello@gulbaan.com