This book was carefully planned for you who are, or should be, fascinated by the wonders of flower design. Those of you who are professionals in the field will also find it of great assistance.
There is no stress on rules, nor is there any need for formality; but the author feels that the amateur should learn the fundamentals of design and color before plunging enthusiastically into floral arrangement. He will thereby obtain the background which, in future attempts, will assist him in creating good designs.
We can learn lesson number one from Mother Nature, who always manages to place her plant life in a setting which will harmonize with and beautify its subject: rather than detract from and eventually destroy its design.
Unlike most creative arts, floral arrangement has the advantage of natural, not man-made material. In all the centuries of mankind we have been unable to reproduce the thrilling combination of soft texture, graceful lines, radiant color and delicate scent found in a single rose. Science has, however, greatly advanced the planting of garden flowers by constant research and experiment. History shows us that as far back as 562 B.C., King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon designed the beautiful "Hanging Gardens" for his wife, Amytis. They are one of the "Seven wonders of the world." Today we see about us our own lovely gardens, some formal, some informal, designed to enclose our homes in an aura of enchantment.
