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IV. Containers
A.. Choose simple and grayed containers rather than vivid in color.
Green, brown, and gray are usually suitable.
B. The heaviness of the branch/s will help determine both the size and
visual weight of the container you should use.
C. Usually the container is not the dominant component in the design,
however, a sculptural type container that is fitting to the surroundings and
decor of the home can be successfully used as the dominant component in the
design.
V. Conditioning
A. Clean ands groom all foliage
B. Strip all foliage from the stem that is to be immersed in water. No
leaves should be below the water line of the design.
C. Foliage should be put in deep water several hours before arranging.
Some leaves like to be immersed completely to absorb maximum water.
D. Heavy stems may need to be split or cut vertically a few inches to
assist in water absorption
VI. Selection of Materials
A. Select contour of branches appropriate to container and placement.
B. It may be necessary to prune the branch to eliminate a cluttered effect
and to show off the branch and leaves to their best advantage. Prune
branches to reveal their gracefulness. They can be bent by wiring or with gentle
hand pressure.
C. Think of the patterns of natural growth - compact at center and sparse
and open at outer edges. In nature balance originates from the main line
and forms the central axis. Branches lead off and create a path leading
the eye out and back to the center, so it should be with the design. Bold leaves
or upright sprays become the central axis, fixing the balance. Lines
build. forms should follow the pattern of the limbs. A rounded form
is usually needed in the lower area to direct the eye to the center of the
design and provide a terminal point for the radiating lines.
D. Foliage designs look more graceful if they are not too compact.
Spaces help to separate forms and emphasize shape. |
Physical Properties of Color
HUE the specific name of a color
VALUE the lightness or darkness of a color
a) A tint is a light value, resulting from adding white to a hue.
b) A shade is a dark value, resulting from adding black to a hue.
INTENSITY the brightness or dullness of a
color
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