Real touch, silk-look and other labels: what to ask about flower materials

Separate the label from the specification

Product names often describe an intended look or feel. They do not always tell you what every component is made from. Ask for the material of the petals, leaves, stem covering and internal support separately. Preserve the supplier’s wording in your notes instead of converting a general label into an unsupported material claim.

Ask what real touch means for that item

Treat real touch as a prompt for a more specific question: which part has the described finish, and how should it be handled and cleaned? A physical sample is more informative than a texture photograph. If the supplier offers several finishes, compare them using the same flower shape and color when possible.

Look at the intended handling

An arrangement that stays on a high shelf will be handled differently from flowers used repeatedly at events. Tell the supplier how often you plan to pack, reshape or move the piece. Ask for the recommended care method and storage conditions for the exact product, especially when different materials are combined.

Do not assume outdoor or specialist performance

A lifelike finish is not evidence of suitability for direct sunlight, rain or a venue’s fire requirements. Ask for model-specific documentation where such performance matters. Check that a document applies to the ordered item and color rather than a broadly similar product in the same catalog.

Record a clear buying decision

A useful comparison sheet contains the exact reference, confirmed materials, sample observations, care instructions and quotation. Keep unconfirmed fields visibly blank. This makes later reordering easier and prevents descriptive names from becoming facts that nobody has actually verified.