A Starker Arrangement of LAVENDER LACE with Phlox, Cleome, Yew, Peony 
and Gladiolus Foliage. 
Living Pictures... 
(Continued from page 8) 
The essentials of good composition are— 
1—Balance. Both sides of the arrangement should 
appear to be of equal weight. They need not be alike 
but must appear to balance each other. Darker colored 
flowers seem to be heavier than light colored ones. 
Flowers at a distance from the center of the arrange- 
ment appear heavier than those closer to the center. 
2—Proportion. There should be a proper relation 
between the plant material and the container, and be- 
tween the different types of materials used. Thus, in 
the case of glads, baby’s breath is out of proportion. 
If using figurines, be particularly careful to have them 
in scale. 
3—Unity. The arrangement should constitute a 
unified whole, with each part contributing to the fin- 
inet arrangement, but not being too prominent in 
itself. 
4—Focus. There must be some dominant note, focal 
point, or center of interest which will hold the eye of 
the beholder. Usually it should be low down, near the 
rim of the container. 
3—Good Line. The arrangements should have good 
lines which contribute to the interest of the composi- 
tion as a whole. 
6—Texture. Texture should be pleasing to the eye 
and blend well. Avoid too harsh contrasts. 
7—Rhythm. Ascending movement and rhythm can 
often be acquired by the proper placement of the ele- 
ments in a grouping. Repetition in spacing and in 
form and size will promote a feeling of movement or 
aspiration. 
8—Distinction. Study Leaf Forum. A dramatic leaf 
or spray of foliage will often add distinction to an 
otherwise very ordinary arrangement. (Note use of 
foliage on page 8.) Pep up your grouping by the addi- 
tion of yucca, gladiolus, castor bean, canna, hosta, or 
iris foliage. 
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