Ikebana - Part II

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Flowers are one of the most beautiful creations of God. People, Birds and Insects enjoy them fully. Flowers when brought into the house bring fragrance, color and light. When an arrangement is created using Flowers it is always appreciated and brings joy to everyone who sees it. The arrangements also say about your moods and artistic skills or to complement a special occasion. Arrangements can be displayed in the Kitchen, Living Rooms, Room Corners, Stairways, and Bedrooms and even in Bathrooms.

There are two different styles of arrangement:

1. Western Arrangement
2. Japanese Style of Arrangement - Ikebana

Here abundant flowers are amassed together and colors are mixed to form arrangements. Planning an arrangement is important keeping in mind the right size, shape, colors and type of flowers used and appropriate containers to hold the flowers. Long-lasting flowers such as Carnations, Chrysanthemums, Gladioli, Tube Roses and Orchids are ideal for a weekly once arrangement. Before buying or cutting flowers, work out the size and shape of the display. Make sure that the arrangement harmonizes with its surroundings.

Many types of containers can be used : Jugs, Pots, Flower Vases, Teapots, Rustic Baskets, Bottles, Big Sea Shells, Mugs, Old Watering Cans, Terracotta Pots etc.,

Different types of arrangements created in this style are :

1. Pedestal Arrangements : These are arrangements which raises above the ground or a table. Here Wet Foam is used to anchor the flowers. To strengthen the foam, wrap it with a chicken wire, carefully pressing the mesh into shape. A variety of shapes and designs can be created with flowing, downward-sweeping lines, which is known as "movement". Gladioli, Roses and Carnations can be used. This type of arrangements is for special family occasions like a wedding or celebration party and it involves more work, but is always worthwhile.
2. Wall Arrangements : Vases in cone, horn or shell-shaped, flat on one side with generously flowing flowers and foliage hung on a blank wall will immediately make a bright wall art. A wall basket can also be used as a container.
3. Rings and Wall Wreath Arrangement : Here Foam Rings can be used to anchor flowers and foliage or the Wreath base can be of twisted branches and decorated with Fruits and dry material. Button roses, Apple, Pine Cones, Sweet peas, Larkspur, Hydrangeas can be used. A Wreath with Wheat and bright flowers surrounding a terracotta candle bowl will illuminate dark evenings.
4. Flower Spheres : They make colorful hanging arrangements. Both fresh flowers and dried flowers can be used.
5. Small Arrangements : Delicate arrangements can be created using delicate Ferns and tiny flowers in small containers. The containers can be Perfume bottles, tiny wine glasses, miniature boxes etc.,
6. Large Arrangements : A large arrangement would be appropriate in a spacious hall or in a dining area. Large containers in different shapes can be used. Gerberas, Madonna Lily, Gladioli, Alstroemeria, Tube Roses, Roses, Long and short stalked Foliage in different combinations can be used to fill the container.