On my online workbook this week: Of should and must

Dear

This week's inspiration is taking time to whittle away at something truly remarkable.

Oh yes… my tip is a sneaky one this week. If you whittle the notch in the willow twig deep but small you can wedge the orchid and the vine stems into the notch so that they fit tightly.

After cutting the notch, set aside the willow stem for a few days so that it dries a bit and the stem can shrink slightly to fit securely in the display bottle neck when you place the fresh stems.

With a tight fit both stems will be attached to the stumpy willow twig stopper and not just rest in the water. This is ideal for topping up the water without having to redo the design everytime. Simply lift the stumpy twig out, fill the container to just below where the stump rests so that the stopper is not in water (dried plant material should not be in the water though as this will spoil rather quickly) and replace the design elements. The vine will continue to grow and the orchids will look pretty for quite some time.

Enjoy!

Every good wish,

Christine