Contemporary Tube Design
What I Used
- Shamrock chrysanths / oriental lily
- Trailing amaranthus / anthuriums
- Any structural flowers
- Flat and bun moss
- Ornamental gherkins
Sundries
- 8 lg glass test tubes
- 6 lengths of Perspex tubing
- 3 lengths of steel tubing
- Plaster of paris
- Cold glue
- Bits to hide mechanics
- Square metal container
- Fillers for the tubes.
How I Made This
Firstly make the frame. Decide on the different heights of the tubes and where they will sit in the design. Then mix the plaster of paris according to guide lines and place it into the container.
Now place the Perspex and steel tubes where you want them to go in the mix. You need to work quickly now as it sets fast, if you prefer you can use modelling clay as this gives you more play time.
Next add the fillers to the Perspex tubes at varying heights, coloured water also looks good but it's difficult to clean.
Now add all the large glass test tubes into the tops of the Perspex tubes and some into the base for differing heights. Hide all mechanics and seams (if ugly) by using suitable materials to marry up the overall design.
Next cover the base with mosses and the ornamental gherkins, this you can make as intricate as you like by gluing some of the fillers onto the base.
When all the base is finished and all the glue set, fill the test tubes with flower food and water solution and place the flowers where your eye takes you.
Design Suitability
Competition or Show Piece.
Unusual arrangement for a special occasion.
Make smaller and/or shorter arrangement for unusual table arrangements.
Add baubles at the base for Christmas.
