WREATHS AND CROSSES. 



353 



required. Novices frequently err in making their foundations much too large, and in 

 attaching the moss too loosely. A small wreath, for instance, well made is much to be 

 preferred to a larger one, presenting a " skimpy " appearance owing to not nearly enough 

 flowers having been used. 



A mossed wreath foundation that can be sent by post may measure 10 inches 

 to 12 inches across; a wreath costing a 

 guinea or more can be made on a foundation 

 15 inches in diameter, and quite a large or 

 subscription wreath on an 18-inch founda- 

 tion. A few bold flowers, mixed or other- 

 wise, such as arums, liliums, pancratiums, 

 camellias, eucharises, also chrysanthemums, 

 or cattleyas, if coloured flowers are permis- 

 sible, ought first to be inserted in a circle, 

 thinly and uprightly. If one wire- stem is 

 not sufficient to keep these steady, use two 

 or more. Next form a groundwork with 

 some kind of comparatively cheap flowers, 

 and among these distribute roses, gardenias, 

 Lilies of the Valley, tuberoses, stephanotis, 

 cyclamens, single and double violets, Eoman 

 hyacinths, narcissi, and other choice flowers 

 which happen to be available, mounted on 

 long stems and made to set out boldly 

 (Fig. 201). A few fronds of maiden-hair 

 fern may be interspersed among the flowers, 

 finishing with a margin of asparagus sprays 

 or berberis (Mahonia aquifolia) leaves. 



Large, rich, white satin ribbon, bows may be attached to wreaths. 



Wreaths, very different in style to the preceding, only requiring a certain amount of 

 taste to form, absorb fewer choice flowers, and may be made as desired. A solid 

 foundation of either white or pink asters and chrysanthemums, purple pansies, or other 

 suitable kinds can be provided, and fixed on this, as if laid on it, to about one-half of 

 the circle, fronds of ferns or sprays of asparagus and choice white flowers. Laurel, 

 VOL. III. z z 



Fig. 202 



Mossed Cboss with Floral Spray. 

 (By Miss Iggulden.) 



