On my online workbook this week: With a thankful twist in the middle

Dear

This week's inspiration is designing with, rather than against, nature. You can read more about this... well... actually this is what my entire book is about! Designing with nature: your nature, the nature of our craft and our medium... nature.

And my tip just for you this week is to let nature decide whether or not to allow the autumn leaf armature to fall below the waterline.

Of course we all learn that we should remove any foliage that fall below the waterline from stems to keep our flowers fresh for longer and prevent bacterial growth... but what if the foliage IS your design? I find it best to focus on helping the flowers last for as long as possible and let the leaves naturally (and beautifully) deteriorate around them.

So let your flower stem decide: If the stem is long fill the water to below the autumn leaves (and let the leaves naturally curl as they dry) and place the flower stem at an angle so that the entire design is kept in place by the stem. But if, like in my design, your orchid stem is relatively short place some of the leaves in the water to keep the flowers (and leaves) hydrated and supported. You can always add a few drops of bleach to the water if you prefer and replace the water if you see it's no longer fresh and clear.

Enjoy!

Every good wish,

Christine

ps: Happy Canadian Thanksgiving everyone