(Advanced Class on 20.10.09)

This contemporary design has been made in a black glazed dish, with floral foam for the mechanics. I've started by making a collar of large Ivy leaves around the edge of the foam, and added a ring of green sisal for extra coverage. Then I've made a construction of pink Midellino sticks in a tear-drop shape, using bullion wire to bind the ends into shape, with the rest of the construction made by weaving short pieces of stick across the construction, criss-crossing them for support and rigidity. The construction is then placed on top of the foam. The flowers used are pink Roses, pink spray Chrysanthemums, pink spray Carnations and green spray button Chrysanthemums. I've also used a few wired crystals in groups to add interest. I've inserted the flowers through the construction, keeping them arranged closely so that no foam is showing and ensuring that the outside edge of the contruction is not hidden, as it forms part of the design. A few more Midellino sticks have also been inserted across the design to extend the construction slightly, and add some extra texture and interest.