On my online workbook this week: More! More!! More!!!

Dear

This week's inspiration is adding more energy and support where it matters.

My tip for you this week is to prepare the palm leaf before rolling it too tightly. When we roll the palm leaf outside the vase we prepare the palm by giving it support while it curves so that you can slip it into a rather thin upright container without snapping it. I do this because when I roll the leaf inside the container I want to focus on how the palm leaflets fall both above and below the edge of the container rather than guiding the palm.

If you roll the palm leaf before inserting it into the container the leaflets that fall inside are all squished together to fit into the small opening. To fuss around, reaching into the small opening and getting them straightened out can rip the leaves or even more frustrating… the palm popping out just when you think you almost have it … just… so.

Rather take a moment to prepare the leaf. If you are concerned that it might break, roll the leaf around the container on the outside (see the picture above) first. Roll it again, but this time start from the opposite end. Keep it there for a few seconds, unroll it, and you are ready to roll it inside the vase.

Design note: Rolling the leaf around the vase first is also a great way to measure the palm leaf if you find you struggle to “eyeball” what size will be just right with enough leaves overlapping to tie the support.

Enjoy!

Every good wish,

Christine