Alison Thompson’s forever posy is bursting with magnificent blooms. Felt plants and even Lego flora are ever popular easy-care alternatives to the real thing, so why not crochet yourself a bunch?

The sample items are made with:
-- 4 Small - 3.5mm hook and Scheepjes Cotton 8; 1 ball of each Dark Brown (657), Yellow (551), Canary (714) and Light Green (642)
-- 2 Large - 5mm hook and Scheepjes Cahlista; 1 ball of each Root Beer (157), Yellow Gold (208), Lemon (280) and Fir (525)

Measurements:
-- Small Sunflower measures approx 17cm (7in) in diameter
-- Large Sunflower measures approx 23cm (9in) in diameter

You will also need:
-- Green floristry wire, 28 gauge
-- Toy stuffing
-- 6 wooden sticks, approx 40cm long (see Note)
-- Hessian or calico fabric in neutral colour, 100x100cm
-- Glue
-- Foliage

Note:
We have secured our Sunflowers to sticks found in nature. They all measure between 35-45cm and are sturdy enough not to bend with the weight of the Sunflower attached.