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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.

The desire to bring some of this beauty into our homes gave birth to the art of flower arrangement, which is by no means a new one. The Japanese people used it centuries ago in their daily life and re­ligion. Here is an art for all of us. All we need is the appreciation of beauty and a few flower arrangement implements. The fields, woods, brookbanks, gardens, and of course your local flower shop are abun­dant with the many varieties of plant materials used in flower arrange­ment.

As you thumb through this book, you will find that it tells in simple copy and illustrations, just what you want to know about your new hobby. The possibilities are unlimited. Therefore, to record all history, de­signs and experiments would require considerably more space. After you have read and benefitted from this book, you may retain it as a guide and go on to the countless advanced collections offered at your public library and local book shop.

Nature has created; all you need do is enhance. You can not im­prove the beauty of a flower, but you can take that flower with others of its kind and place it with neighbors who will magnify its loveliness.

Soon you will find that the old practice of stuffing a dozen roses from a thoughtful friend, into a jar any which way as long as they fit, will disappear. In its stead will come a few more minutes spent plac­ing them in the proper vase and adjusting them carefully, so that your visitors will say, "What a lovely arrangement of roses 1" instead of picking one out with, "What a beautiful rose!"

Good luck.   Have fun.

Budded on - PALM ISLAND, FLORIDA Bloomed in - DALLAS, TEXAS

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