florist, but there are many of our readers, who, from location or circumstances, are not able to 

 employ such aid. There are also occasions when a present of a floral ornament, the work of the 

 donor, would be prized very highly, when the same procured from another would neither be 



appropriate nor pleasant. We therefore think a few hints on the making of floral designs from 

 fresh flowers will not be unacceptable. 



The engravings show three of the most common designs, wreath, crown and cross ; next to 

 these, the anchor is most frequently used. The outline engravings show the forms made of wire, 

 and the lower engravings the designs finished. These wire forms can be obtained at very little 

 cost, of nearly all florists and wire-workers ; a full set costs but, very little, and can be 

 used scores of times. These wire frames are filled with damp moss, well packed in, and 

 secured at certain points with light twine or thread, if necessary, to keep the moss in 

 place. Obtain a package of the common wooden tooth-picks, sharpened at both ends, 

 and divide them in the middle ; cut the stems of the flowers short and fasten them to these 

 picks with a fine wire or thread, as shown in the engraving. Of course, these little 

 wooden spikes can be easily made, but they cost comparatively nothing. Insert these 

 picks in the moss, which will keep the flower in just the position desired. Foliage 

 may be treated in the same manner. A little taste, experience and patience will soon 

 enable any one to make these designs in a rapid and artistic manner; It is well to get a few of 

 the mo^t common designs and keep on hand, so as to be in readiness for any occasion. 



FOR THE CHURCH. 



All church decoration should be neat and simple. It is better to have too little than too much. 

 The church should not be made to resemble a vast conservatory nor an evergreen bower, but 

 should appear like a church tastefully decorated in honor of Him whose temple it is. The 

 wreaths should not be large and heavy, as this gives a gloomy appearance, but light and airy. 

 and a few flowers or bright berries have an enlivening effect, especially if the evergreens are 

 dark, as our arborvitaes and hemlocks are in winter. 



Most ladies, we presume, understand the making of wreaths. Procure strong cord, and 

 fasten both ends to some stationary objects. Then, having the evergreens cut into small 

 branches, fasten them to the main cord by winding with a smaller twine, working in the flowers 

 at the same time. Crosses, and other designs can be made of straw-board and covered as 

 previously described ; or if any object very large is required, the design can be cut from boards. 

 Letters covered with rice are very pretty among dark evergreens. 



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