Let's DIY A Dried Flower Artwork!

Creating a dried flower arrangement on a canvas can add a touch of nature to your home decor. Using lines of string to hold the arrangement in place adds a rustic aesthetic.

It's quite simple to do, and this small piece of art took 30 minutes from the start of creating it to hanging it on the wall.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft your very own dried flower artwork.

Materials Needed

· Dried flowers (e.g., small stems of dried pods, lavender, Bunny tails, eucalyptus, baby’s breath, straw flowers, dried miniature roses, hydrangea)

· Patterned scrapbooking paper for background

· A Canvas - I used 15 x 20cm (5.9 x7.9")

· Twine

· Hot glue gun and PVA glue

· Pencil and scissors

· Paintbrush and acrylic paint in the desired colour

· Decorative Label (see the FREE ones at the end of this blog post) or a ribbon if not using a label.

Steps to Create Your Dried Flower Arrangement

1. Prepare Your Dried Flowers:

Trim your dried flowers to fit the height of your canvas. Do a quick mock-up of the arrangement.

2. Measure the Backing Paper:

Mark the measurement in pencil on the back side of the paper, using the canvas as a guide and cut to size.

3. Paint:

the outside edge and into the inside of the front of the canvas.

Use a hairdryer to quick dry it, or leave it to air dry.

4. Glue:

Using the PVA, glue and stick the backing paper to the front of the canvas.

5. Attach a string hanger:

Do this now, as it will be difficult to do after the dried flowers are placed. I used frame screw type hangers, but you could just staple the twine hanger in place.

6. Attach the twine:

You need four rows of twine.

For the first line of twine, attach it to the back left-hand side as shown.

Pull the twine reasonbly tightly across the front of the canvas and hot glue evenly at the back on the right side.

Do this three more times to create 4 rows of twine.

I spaced mine about 2cm (3/4") apart.

7. Attach the Flowers:

Start with one dried flower at a time. Some can slide straight under the twine rows, and other stems can be crossed in an over and under weave into position.

The aim is to place the dried flowers splayed to resemble a mini bouquet.

When you are happy with the design, trim any stems that are too long.

8. Add a label or a ribbon:

You can finish your art arrangement by hot gluing a label as I have done, or use a ribbon bow to cover where the stems are crossing and connecting.

Your dried flower arrangement on canvas is now complete! This beautiful piece can be used to decorate your home or as a thoughtful gift.

Remember, the beauty of this art lies in its imperfections and uniqueness, so let your creativity shine through.

I thought the 'Positive Thinking Label' that came on the paper I used was a fabulous final touch, so I have created some labels for you to use on your own dried flower artwork.

Copy, paste to your computer, size and print.

FREE LABELS

And the last two for you to handwrite your own words.

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#driedflowers #driedflowerart #driedflowercrafts

Tangelo Dream Iced Cookies

Flavoursome and citrus tangy!

'Tangelo Dream Iced Cookies'

You might ask what a Tangelo is?

The tangelo is a medium-sized, easy-peel citrus fruit that is a hybrid between a tangerine and a pomelo or grapefruit.

They are known for their vibrant orange colour and sweet, juicy, tangy flavour.

In addition to their delicious taste, tangelos are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system.

Isn't that a great reason to enjoy them as a delicious iced cookie?

So Lets Bake!

Tangelo Dream Iced Cookies

Yield: 17 medium sized biscuits

Ingredients:

150 grams (1 cup) softened butter

3/4 cup fine white caster sugar

1 large egg

1 Tablespoon finely grated Tangelo rind

2 cups plain flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder (sifted)

Cookie Method:

Preheat the oven to 190 °C (374°F)

Line a baking tray with baking paper

Beat butter and sugar together until pale and creamy.

Add the egg.

Beat well.

Add the Tangelo rind and mix in using a wooden spoon.

Add the sifted dry ingredients.

Roll into balls and flatten each with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.

Bake for 12 minutes until golden.

Cool cookies completely before icing.

Icing:

2 cups of sifted powdered icing sugar.

2 Tablespoons of melted butter

Mix these ingredients together with increments of one juiced tangelo.

I like my icing drippy, but use less juice for a firmer icing if you prefer.

When the cookies are completely cold, ice each biscuit.

You can decorate the icing tops with more grated Tangelo rind.

Make a cup of your favourite tea or coffee and sit down to enjoy these flavoursome tangy iced cookies.

PS:

I always make several batches of these at Halloween as treats for family and friends.

You will find a printable recipe HERE.

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The Spiritual Meaning of Dragonflies

Dragonflies hold a special place for many people, representing more than just the physical beauty of the insect. Their intricate wings and vivid colours convey deep symbolic meanings in various cultural contexts. As symbols of transformation, adaptability, and joy, these gorgeous and enchanting insects inspire many to explore the deeper facets of life.

Transformation and Change

At the heart of the spiritual significance of dragonflies is transformation. Similar to their life cycle, which takes them from underwater nymphs to incredible adult insects, dragonflies epitomise personal evolution and change. They can remind us of the importance of embracing our own metamorphoses as we navigate through our journey of life.

Embracing Adaptability

Dragonflies are celebrated for their extraordinary flying skills, allowing them to adjust gracefully to their surroundings. This remarkable adaptability symbolises the need for flexibility in our own lives, urging us to welcome new experiences and handle obstacles as they arise with grace.

Lightness and Joy

Another compelling aspect of dragonflies is their connection to a light and joyful existence. Their graceful aerial movements and sparkling wings serve as a reminder to embrace the present. Dragonflies inspire us to shed heaviness and approach life with a sense of joy, cherishing the beauty that envelops us.

You might like to visit my page:

Stella Arcobaleno - Beautiful Words, Images & Reels

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Pretty Doily Vase Topper

Using a vintage crochet doily as a decorative topper for a vase is a beautiful way to enhance your floral displays with a touch of nostalgia.

Mine certainly brightened up the office space!

Doilies are delicate pieces that not only celebrate the craftsmanship of yesteryear but also infuse your home with warmth and character.

You can find them to buy in most thrift stores and often at jumble sales or craft markets.

Steps to Use a Vintage Doily as a Vase Topper

1. Choose the Right Vase: The first step is to select a vase that coordinates well with the size and design of your chosen doily. A clear glass or a simple ceramic vase works beautifully, allowing the intricate patterns of the doily to shine through. Consider the colours of the doily as well; a soft white or cream doily might pair elegantly with a colourful vase, while a bold doily could make a classic, understated vase pop.

2. Prepare the Doily: Make sure the doily is clean and intact, free from any stains or blemishes. If it has accumulated dust over time, gently wash it with a mild soap solution by hand. After washing, lay it flat on a clean towel to dry naturally, ensuring the fibres maintains its shape.

You will need a doily that has reasonably sized gaps in the design.

3. Make sure the vase is clean. Then fill it with water.

4. Position the Doily: Lay the doily over the top of the vase, allowing its edges to cascade gracefully down the sides.

Use a rubber band to secure the doily in place.

The vintage lace will add texture and depth, making the floral display more visually interesting.

5. Arrange Your Flowers: Now comes the fun part—placing your choice of flowers into the water container. Choose blooms that complement the doily, such as soft pastels for a gentle look, or vibrant hues for a more dramatic effect.

The flower stems need to be slim enough to slip through the gaps in the doily design.

6. Adjust as Needed: After your flowers are in place, take a step back and evaluate the arrangement. Make any necessary adjustments to the positioning of the flowers and the doily to achieve a visually appealing balance. Add a ribbon or thin rope twine by tying it around the vase over the top of the elastic band to hide it, finishing with a small bow.

Note: To change the vase water, undo the bow, lift up the dolly and rubber band with the flowers, set aside, change water, and carefully place the flowers back in. Then push the rubber band back into position, tightening the doily, and tie the ribbon or twine bow back in place.