On my online workbook this week: It’s the most… it’s the most… wonderful Patina Copper Spiral Bauble Christmas of all!

Dear

This week's inspiration is the most wonderful time of the year! Merry Christmas flower buddies. Hope you have something to look forward to, hear something that makes you smile and create a memory that makes this year something special.

My tip for you this week is all about finding balance. The baubles are so heavy and can easily tip over the entire design so plan carefully where you hang them. For my design I added two spiral baubles hanging from the front and one hanging from the back… with the battery pack to help it balance out.

Then we also have to consider visual balance. Hang the heavier baubles to balance the thicker side of the pinecone.

But the balance I want to focus on is anxiety inducing perceived balance. I am not a huge fan of arrogant designs. What I mean with that is floral designs that no longer enhance the experience and become an obstacle. Over enthusiastic designs that look amazing but block the view of people seated at a dinner table so that they can’t comfortably connect with each other is a good example. It looks stunning but does not fulfill the brief. Designs that are uncomfortable for a bride to wear and so she fusses with them and misses out on the wonderful moment is another. So are designs that look like it might topple over at any moment. It’s unnerving. When we design with balance in mind, have a look at our design from a “not a designer at all” perspective to make sure it also has a stable appearance. Be mindful that the onlooker has no way to judge how good your hidden mechanics are. Make sure your designs are credible especially when you design something that is unusual.

Design note: of course you can absolutely use this as a way to invoke an emotional response with onlookers. Where it is definitely not appropriate to unnerve your Christmas guest with a “is this falling…?” design during the Christmas Eve feast it is absolutely perfect for a Waterfall design for a competition where you want the onlooker to feel exhilarated by the illusion that the design is about to cascade over the edge of a rock.

Choose your moment. Create balance.

Enjoy!

Every good Christmas wish,

Christine