to help you begin crafting your own arrangements. Each step-by-step arrangement was created using a different primary technique and design style. I hope this provides enough ideas and information to get you started making ikebana!
chapter one
Ikebana Basics
Prior to starting any artistic endeavor, you must become familiar with the tools and materials essential to your work. Learning proper technique is also important because the techniques are what convert your ideas into tangible form. In this chapter, I'll discuss all the basics: from the containers, tools, materials, and techniques, to the fundamental idea behind each arrangement. Once you become familiar with the basics, you'll be much better equipped to create your own ikebana arrangements.
Containers
There are two basic types of containers ordinarily used for ikebana arrangements- the vase style (upright) for nageire and the basin style (shallow) for moribana. It's important to select the shape and color of the container carefully, since it often provides the basis for your choice of materials and will largely determine the shape of the ikebana form.
For those just starting to learn ikebana or who have not worked with flowers, I recommend beginning by obtaining one each of the following container types: a vase, a basin type, a glass type, and a basket. They all require different techniques to support the flowers inside, but you can enjoy so many different arrangements using only these few containers.
Personally, I like to use containers with a simple design that will help highlight the natural materials and that can be matched with a variety of materials. I sometimes have a hard time finding the basin-type container in the United States. So instead I will use a large, shallow bowl or a large dish as a substitute for the basin style of arrangement. I also like using glass containers, not only in the summertime, but also during other seasons. Because the glass is neutral and transparent, the design of the arrangement can extend into, and be viewed through, the container.
A variety of container styles
In order to select the right container for your arrangement, consider the following points:
• The size relationship between the container and the site of display: The size of the container must correspond with the size of the display site. Too large or too tall of an arrangement for the small space can simply overwhelm the space. Too small of an arrangement in a big empty space will likewise diminish the quality of the arrangement.
• The color harmony between the container, the site, and the flowers: It is generally easier if you first choose the site and a container color that matches the site, and choose the materials last, because it is often more difficult to find a proper container than it is to find materials suitable for the container and site. The choice of color is, obviously, a matter of your personal taste; however, keep in mind that the choice of color combination will fundamentally influence the overall appearance of your arrangement. For example, the use of monochromatic color (using lighter and darker colors from the same color group) creates a calm feeling. In contrast, the use of complementary colors (for example, red and green or yellow and violet) produces a much more vivid impression.
• The occasion: Is the arrangement for a seasonal occasion or a special day? A basket or glass container can often be used in summertime, for instance, or a dark yellow, orange, or brown ceramic container can be well suited for the fall. Pastel colors, of course, are traditionally associated with springtime and Easter.
• The surroundings: Consider nearby paintings or furniture or the wall color where your ikebana will be displayed. You want to create harmony between the container and the surrounding space. Much as you choose paintings and other decorations to match with your interior design, select a container that matches your surroundings to ensure that the ikebana blends nicely with the site.
Container Ideas
Many everyday objects can be used as alternative containers for your arrangements. If necessary, try adding a small bottle or plastic liner inside the object to prevent water from leaking.
The following arrangements are examples of how I have used alternative containers. I created these arrangements with plant materials left over from larger arrangements.
These are some of the types of items I sometimes use as a substitute for the traditional ikebana container: a teapot, some small coffee cups, a tray, and some Japanese teacups
The Green Tea Pot
I like the round shape and earth green color of this teapot. The handmade craftsmanship also gives a warm impression. Only two simple materials are used for this small arrangement: Galax leaves are rolled into a cone shape with some Craspedia placed inside. The yellow of the Craspedia creates the accent against the green pot.
Coffee Cups
Depending on the size of your container and the available space, you can use either one container or a combination of several containers. When using a group of containers, I select those that have a sequential design or color. In this arrangement, I use the line (steel grass) to connect two coffee cups and also use the color for effect (the reverse color in two cups). In one cup, the small pink flowers (Aster Matsumoto) are arranged outside, and I use one green chrysanthemum in the center. In the other cup, I reverse the color scheme-the green chrysanthemums are arranged outside and one Aster Matsumoto is used in the center.
Japanese Cups
In this arrangement, the same flowers (Aster Matsumoto) in different colors (pink and violet) are used to show harmony between the two cups. I selected these colors to match the Japanese alphabet design on the cups. The yellow flowers (Craspedia) are used to create the geometric lines.
Japanese Tray
Flowers, foliage, and some small stones are arranged together in this Japanese lacquer tray used as the container. Because the height is low and flat, this type of arrangement is suitable as a table decoration.
Other Containers
Finally, don't hesitate to look to some of the everyday objects in your own home as potential ikebana containers. You can create unique arrangements that express your individual style by putting a little extra thought into your container ideas.
Ikebana Tools and Materials
Ikebana has its own tools that you should become familiar with. The scissors and the kenzan are the main ikebana tools, but there are others that can help to create the form of the arrangement more efficiently. Additionally, I sometimes use some of the basic tools that are used for Western-style arrangements. As long as the tool helps to construct the form, it doesn't matter how it is ordinarily used. Western tools can be useful for making ikebana, and ikebana tools can be useful for making Western-style arrangements.
