Want to know how florists create arrangements with stunning bends and folds in their leaves? Or you’ve marvelled at floral designs plucked straight from another galaxy. Enter sheltering. This design technique involves arranging one or more elements, like branches or foliage, over or around another to create a partial enclosure for the underlying material.
Defining Sheltering in Floral Design
Sheltering is a floral design technique that involves strategically placing elements to protect or highlight the focal point of a composition. Unlike being a standalone design style, sheltering is a versatile method employed within various design styles to enhance visual appeal.
Imagine a design where the main point of interest, such as a distinctive flower or ornament, is shielded or partially covered by another element within the arrangement. This could be a carefully positioned branch with foliage, a cascading piece of flexible plant material, or any other strategic placement that shelters the focal point.
How Do You Use Sheltering in Floral Design
The key to effective sheltering is seamless integration with various design styles. Whether you’re working on a modern, minimalist arrangement or a lush, traditional bouquet, sheltering can be adapted to complement the overall aesthetic. Experiment with different plant materials, arrangements, and levels of coverage to find the perfect balance for your specific design.
For instance, you can use a pine cone as the focal point in your design. Sheltering could involve placing a branch with overhanging foliage above the pine cone, creating a protective enclosure. Alternatively, you can use a flexible plant material to drape over the pine cone or strategically loop elements around it to achieve a sheltering effect.
Techniques for Effective Sheltering
1. Overhanging Foliage: One common approach involves using foliage that hangs over the focal area, creating a protective canopy. This technique adds a touch of elegance while ensuring the main design element is highlighted.
2. Flexible Plant Material: Experiment with more flexible plant materials, like drooping sword grass, to create a sheltered effect. Adjusting the arrangement to allow these materials to drape over the focal point enhances the overall visual impact.
3. Strategic Looping: Another method is to loop elements over the design to protect the focal point without being completely covered subtly. This technique provides a sense of shelter while maintaining visibility.
Sheltering is a versatile technique that adds depth and interest to floral designs by protecting and highlighting focal points. By understanding the concept of this design technique, you can elevate your floral design work, creating arrangements that captivate with their visual appeal and thoughtful composition.
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