Tag: ikebana tips
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Ikebana Tips #8: fun alternative to using kenzan
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text] Alternatives to kenzan pin-holders #1 These days kenzan pin-holders are our usual method for holding flowers in Ikebana arrangements. But kenzan are a relatively recent introduction. Kenzan origins are tightly-bound bundles of straw called “komiwara”, that would be pushed into the stem of a vase and the materials inserted between the straw. More…
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Ikebana Tips & Tricks #7: caring for your kenzan
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Kenzan pin-holders may be heavy and made of metal but they do still need looking after. Pins get bent, the rubber mats accumulate bacteria and bits of plants get stuck in them. If you don’t clean them after use, they’ll taint the water of your next arrangement. Leaving the pins bent will make it…
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Ikebana Tips & Tricks #6: soft, hollow stems
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]In my Ikebana classes I often show my students tricks that will help their Ikebana arranging. I decided to record this particular one after showing one of my Ikebana students, who remarked that it was such a very simple yet really useful tip. So, the problem this time is how to hold tall, hollow…
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Tips & Tricks #5: keeping your kenzan stable in shallow vases
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]In my previous Ikebana tip I showed you how to keep your tall vase and the kenzan stable, particularly when using tall and heavy materials. But we also use tall, heavy materials in shallow vases in which gravel and a kenzan stabiling leg can’t be used. This tip, #5, will show you how. Do…