How to Learn the Basics of Ikebana

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Ikebana, or the Japanese art of flower arrangement, takes years of study to master, but some of the basic principles can be appreciated without formal study.

Step 1: Layer the flower arrangement
Layer the flower arrangement. The uppermost layer of the arrangement should point to the sky; the middle layer addresses man, and the lowest layer, earth.

Tip
Ikebana strives for harmony with nature. In keeping with the natural order, a plant found in the mountains should never be placed lower in the arrangement than one found in a meadow.

Step 2: Aim for balance
Strive to achieve balance between all elements of the arrangement, including the container.

Tip
There are many schools of ikebana, each with a preferred style of arrangement. Some use tall vases and vertical lines, others use upright arrangements, and still others use shallow containers.

Step 3: Use asymmetry
Keep the flower arrangement asymmetrical. Use an odd number of branches with varying stem lengths.

Step 4: Consider how the arrangement will be viewed
Consider how the arrangement will be viewed. Traditionally the arrangement was viewed only from the front, but now ikebana arrangements are viewed from different positions.

Did You Know?
Did you know? Chinese monks in the sixth century C.E. brought the concept of flower arranging to Japan.