This is not intended as a tutorial, but responds to a question asking how on earth I make these hanging baskets. I’ve got some photos taken, and the rest will have to come as I take them so as to complete the actual visual steps. For now, here’s what I have. I’ll continue working on this post as I make more flowers and baskets
Making the baskets.
Buckram, canvas or other suitable material is cut into small squares, wet and shaped over suitable molds and secured till they’re dry. Once dry, the squares are eased off the molds and trimmed to the correct shape. Fine cord, bunka or string is used to edge the basket. Handles are attached or jump rings inserted in the case of hanging baskets. I tend to make a selection of baskets at a time and fill a drawer with them till they’re needed.
Next comes the process of making the flowers.
These are single impatiens – a variegated variety that has a white line running down the centre of the petal. The flower is shaped and glued to the stem. Once the glue has dried thoroughly I use white paint and a 20/0 paintbrush to paint lines from the centre to the edge of each petal. Lastly the black centre dot is placed using a fine liner or black paint and a very fine ball tool.
Single Impatiens ready to be potted. In amongst the impatiens are tiny narcissus and stems with african violets. Similar structure to the flowers.
