My flower (sort of) inspiration

Before floristry I studied Fine art and even then I had a obsession with all things floral. This led me on to working in a school Art department at which I was fortunate to take part in many workshops, I  always enjoyed drawing and printmaking but had never tried wood engraving until last year. As with many forms of printinmaking this requires a lot of patience and concentration with many hours devoted to a tiny piece of wood with every tiny mark being significant. Although I enjoyed studying floristry I am glad that I have some free time available now to concentrate on other projects.
This is the result of my first attempt at wood engraving, my inpriation came from a little radish that I grew.

The language of Flowers and whats in the garden

I am very proud that at the moment my Sunflowers are starting to bloom, I have grown these from a seed something which I have never achieved before.

For me, some things are intended for the vase however  I will leave these in the garden for the bees to feast upon as they also seem to be a fan.
As well as appreciating the beauty of flowers I am also interested in their meanings or symbolisms, in The Language of Flowers book (Helen kindly bought me) this flower symbolises false riches and was seen as gaudy and vulgar and banished to cottage gardens with fans of the Sunflower being deemed as false and superficial, all I can say is Oscar Wilde was a fan and I am too.

Making the most of my bud vase, Sweet peas picked from the garden today.

Choosing the right vessel

This post is dedicated to my love of collecting things to put flowers in. Whether its a new vase from a florist, high street shop or a charity shop find (my favourite) I love collecting and thanks to the fabulous Flower Recipe Book  I can justify my addiction.
The book has step by step guides to creating amazing arrangements and has sections on everything you need to get started including choosing the right vessel.  Below are a few photos of things I have acquired over the years and I am pleased to say that they are mentioned in the book.
I highly recommend purchasing this book and collecting beautiful things to put beautiful flowers in.
Happy collecting!

A very little posy

I have had the luxury of a lazy afternoon (a very rare treat when you have a small child!) So in honour of our new blog title I decided to  scour the garden to create a little flower posy. There are times for showy bouquets and times for delicate posy's that celebrate what you have at your fingertips.
Here is my list of ingredients;

This is the finished article, I had to include my first homegrown Sweet Pea of the season as it is my very favourite little flower of all, whats yours?