BENDING FLOWERS AND BRANCHES 



and the first and second fingers above. The 

 thumbs must be kept close together while 

 you bend, as the stems will break if the 

 thumbs are separated. Bend the stem into 

 proper shape by pressing up with the thumbs 

 and pulling down with the first and second 

 fingers. Try to twist the stem a trifle as you 

 bend. Do not hold the pressure too long on 

 any one part of the stem, but keep the fingers 

 moving along the stem back and forth for the 

 distance of the desired curve. All flowers and 

 branches will be found easier to bend and 

 will hold their curves better if, before arrang- 

 ing, they are placed in deep water in tubs or 

 pitchers, for over night if possible; always 

 for one hour at least before arranging. The 

 chill taken off the water will also make the 

 stems more pliable. 



To Bend Larger Stems of a Woody Nature 



also Small Branches 

 These large, tough branches can some- 

 times be bent by hand pressure, especially 

 branches of spring blossoms, such as the 



[8f] 



