Book of Fresh Flowers: A Complete Guide to Selecting and Arranging
"Some people worry much too much about arranging flowers. There is absolutely no need for anxiety." Reassuring both beginners and experts, Hillier, coauthor of The Book of Dried Flowers , trains his eye instead on the fresh. Making natural-looking arrangements is the goal of his serviceable book, illustrated with 200-odd stunning full-color plates. The author focuses first on the tools of his trade and how to use them, then offers detailed advice on composition, texture and style, explaining how the underpinnings of a full-blown formal bouquetflorists' foam, plastic prongs, adhesive claycan help even a motley floral crew achieve a stately aura. Giving step-by-step instructions for some arrangements pictured, Hillier also recommends seasonal and holiday arrangements. He urges the use of unusual foliage and plant material to complement flowers, whether homegrown or store-bought. Recipes for potpourri and flower foods (e.g., salads) and a section on "essential information" for arrangers round out Hillier's guide. Literary Guild alternate; Doubleday Book Club alternate.Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.