Oshibana art in wabi sabi style

Oshibana, an ancient Japanese art form, involves meticulously selecting and pressing plants, flowers, and leaves to craft intricate and stunning designs. This practice dates back to the Edo period, where it was utilized for spiritual purposes and to enhance floral arrangements' aesthetic appeal. Even today, Oshibana continues to be a popular art form, both traditionally and as a modern craft, across Japan and worldwide.

By displaying these pressed flower frames in your home, office, or bedroom, you can add a touch of beauty and tranquility to your surroundings. These frames boast exquisite details and striking colors, resulting in a unique masterpiece that is bound to spark conversations.

Power of imperfection

Wabi-sabi, a Japanese design aesthetic, values simplicity, naturalness, and the allure of imperfection. It is a philosophy that exalts life's imperfect and fleeting aspects, including the natural cycle of growth, decay, and regeneration. Wabi-sabi style in home decor incorporates elements of nature, such as rough-hewn wood, organic shapes, and natural fibers, to produce a tranquil and serene atmosphere. The primary aim is to foster mindfulness and appreciation of the present moment, while bringing a sense of calm and tranquility to the surroundings. Wabi-sabi decor frequently involves handcrafted items that exhibit the marks of time and use, such as textured pottery and furniture with visible knots in the wood. The goal is to create a welcoming, authentic, and cozy environment that is in harmony with the natural world.

 

Colorful dried leaves

The final color of dried leaves is determined by several factors, including the species of the plant, its age and maturity, the conditions it was grown in, and the method used for drying.

Different species of plants have distinct pigments and chlorophyll levels, which can affect the final color of the dried leaves. For example, some plants have high levels of anthocyanins, which give them rich red, purple, or blue colors, while others have high levels of carotenoids, which give them yellow, orange, or brown colors.

The age and maturity of the plant can also impact the final color of dried leaves. Younger leaves tend to be greener and have a higher chlorophyll content, while older leaves may have a more muted or yellowish color.

The conditions the plant was grown in, such as light exposure, temperature, and soil quality, can also play a role in the final color of dried leaves. For example, leaves grown in high light conditions may have a more vibrant color than leaves grown in low light conditions.

Finally, the method used for drying the leaves can also impact their final color. For example, leaves that are air-dried may turn brown or yellow over time, while leaves that are dried using a dehydrator may retain more of their original color.

Overall, the final color of dried leaves is a result of a complex interplay between genetics, environmental factors, and drying methods.

Dried leaves collages are the easiest way to start your adventure with making frames with pressed plants.

 

Biophilic designing

Biophilic design is an approach to design that emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. This design philosophy is based on the idea that human beings have an innate tendency to seek out and connect with nature, and that incorporating elements of nature into our built environment can have positive impacts on our health, well-being, and overall quality of life.

In practice, biophilic design incorporates elements of nature into our buildings, homes, and workspaces through features such as green walls, indoor plants, natural light, views of nature, and other similar elements. Studies have shown that biophilic design can help to reduce stress, improve mood, enhance cognitive function, and promote physical health, among other benefits. As such, it is becoming increasingly popular in a wide range of applications, from residential homes and commercial spaces to healthcare facilities and schools.

Pressed flower frames can be considered biophilic as they bring elements of nature into our built environment. By displaying pressed flowers in frames, you can bring the beauty and diversity of the natural world into your home or office. This can have positive impacts on your well-being, such as reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting a sense of peace and tranquility.

Additionally, the process of pressing flowers itself can be a form of mindfulness and meditation, promoting a connection with nature and helping to reduce stress and anxiety. So, incorporating pressed flower frames into your decor can be a great way to incorporate biophilic design into your space and promote a sense of well-being.

 

Power of marigolds

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a species of annual and perennial flowering plants that belong to the Asteraceae family. Calendulas are native to the Mediterranean region and are widely cultivated for their bright and cheerful flowers, which come in shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Calendulas are easy to grow and care for, and they are a popular choice for gardens, window boxes, and pots. They thrive in well-drained soils and full sun, and they are known for their ability to bloom prolifically throughout the summer and into the fall.

In addition to their ornamental value, calendulas have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The petals and leaves of the plant have been used to treat a variety of conditions, including skin irritations, wounds, and digestive issues.

Pressed and dried calendulas make for beautiful and eye-catching decor elements, capturing the bright and cheerful blooms in a timeless way. They can be used in a variety of ways, such as in picture frames, shadow boxes, or on their own as a decorative accent. 

Whether displayed on their own or combined with other dried flowers, pressed and dried calendulas bring a touch of sunny color and natural beauty to any space.

Evergreen heathers

Heathers are a group of evergreen and deciduous shrubs that belong to the Ericaceae family. They are native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and are known for their delicate, bell-shaped flowers and evergreen foliage.

There are many different species of heathers, each with its own unique characteristics, such as different flower colors, growth habits, and foliage textures. Some of the most popular species include Scottish heather, Spanish heather, and bell heather.

Heathers are popular ornamental plants and are often grown in gardens, parks, and natural landscapes. They are low-maintenance plants and are well-suited to a variety of growing conditions, including well-draining soils, partial shade, and acidic soils.

In addition to their ornamental value, heathers also play an important role in the ecosystem, providing food and habitat for wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. They are also important components of moorland and heathland habitats, helping to stabilize the soil and provide important ecosystem services.

Pressed and dried heathers make for stunning and unique decor pieces, preserving the delicate beauty of these plants in a timeless way. Using heathers in your decor brings a touch of nature into your home, and the dried blooms can last for many years, making them a long-lasting addition to any space.

Pressed and dried heathers can be used in a variety of ways, such as in picture frames, shadow boxes, or on their own as a decorative accent. They can also be combined with other pressed and dried flowers to create a beautiful and intricate floral display.

Whether displayed in a prominent place or tucked away in a quiet corner, pressed and dried heathers are a versatile and attractive decor element. They are a great way to bring the beauty of nature into your home, and make for wonderful gifts for anyone who loves flowers and plants.

 

Dried grass as decoration

Dried grass can be a unique and eye-catching addition to any home decor. It adds texture, color, and a touch of natural beauty to any space. Incorporating dried grass into your home decor is an affordable and eco-friendly way to bring a touch of nature into your living space. Just make sure to use dried grass responsibly, as it can come from protected or endangered ecosystems.

Grasses play a critical role in the environment and provide numerous benefits to both wildlife and humans. Some of the most important functions of grasses include:

• Soil stabilization: Grasses have deep roots that help to hold the soil in place and prevent erosion, especially in areas with high wind or rainfall.

• Habitat: Many species of wildlife, such as birds, insects, and mammals, rely on grasses for food, shelter, and nesting sites.

• Carbon sequestration: Grasses absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their roots, stems, and leaves, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

• Biodiversity: Grasses are an important food source for herbivores and support a diverse community of wildlife in their ecosystems.

• Agriculture: Grains such as wheat, corn, and rice are all members of the grass family and provide a major source of food for both people and livestock.

There are many different types of grasses, each with their own unique characteristics and uses. Some of the most common types of grasses include cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and fescue, and warm-season grasses, such as bermudagrass and zoysia.

The color of grass is determined by several factors, including:

• Chlorophyll content: Chlorophyll is the pigment that gives grass its green color and allows it to perform photosynthesis. The amount of chlorophyll in grass affects its greenness, with a higher concentration of chlorophyll resulting in a deeper green color.

• Light: Light is essential for photosynthesis and affects the color of grass. When grass is grown in bright light, it will produce more chlorophyll and appear greener. On the other hand, grass grown in low light may appear yellow or pale green.

  

• Soil nutrients: The availability of soil nutrients can also affect the color of grass. Grass that is growing in nutrient-rich soil will be greener than grass growing in soil that is low in nutrients.

• Environmental conditions: Environmental factors such as temperature, moisture, and air quality can all influence the color of grass. For example, grass may appear yellow or brown if it is growing in drought conditions or is exposed to high levels of pollution.

• Genetics: The genetic makeup of the grass species also determines its natural color. Some grasses, such as bluegrass and fescue, have a natural blue-green color, while others, such as bermudagrass, have a yellow-green hue.