I think time of year is the hardest of all seasons to decorate.
Easter has passed and the bunnies are packed away.
It’s not officially “Summer” yet.
Although the 90 degree days are no indication that it isn’t.
So how does one decorate?
Well, I slowly start by adding touches of Summer to my home.
I start with a few green plants because it’s as if my home yearns for something
alive and green. I particularly love ivy. Variegated ivy to be exact.
I am sharing a tutorial… How to Make an Ivy Topiary.
Tutorial for Making an Easy Ivy Topiary using any container. #gardening #tutorialClick To TweetI am so happy to be joining an amazing group of ladies again
this month for Farmhouse Friday.
This month’s theme is: Farmhouse Garden Containers
Please make sure to follow until the very end where I will share
all of the beautiful projects being shared this month.
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Most people would look at a lidless ironstone tureen and think,
“oh, it’s missing it’s lid.” And perhaps even pass up on buying it.
Nope, not me.
I saw it and immediately thought “planter.”
Of course, as someone who loves to garden and loves plants, I look
at anything that doesn’t move and think “planter.” 🙂
But, I am particularly drawn to anything white such as Ironstone.
When this month’s Farmhouse Friday theme was decided upon, I knew
immediately what project I would be sharing.
I had purchased a hanging ivy basket and it was patiently waiting for
me to return home from a trip so I could get it planted.
I only needed a little bit of extra soil around the sides. The longer tendrils
of ivy were perfect for this topiary project.
Now the only thing that was needed was a stiff wire to create a topiary form
to wrap the ivy tendrils around. Enter one wire clothes hanger.
I shaped the middle section of the wire into a (semi) circle (it doesn’t have
to be perfect), and twisted about 5″ of the two ends together. The ends were
stuck down into the ivy. Then, I started carefully wrapping the longer of
the tendrils on each side of the wire circle.
Once I was completely happy with the fullness of the circle, I gave
the plant a little haircut (not necessary) to clean it up a bit.
Then, I added some faux dusty miller leaves for some added texture
and soft color.
I also tucked in some Summery starfish shells.
And this is what I created in just a few short minutes.
How do you decorate this time of year? Take a look at how you can add small touches of #Summer. #decorateClick To TweetI decided it would be the perfect addition to our little blue chest in the
breakfast room area. I added a new “message” to the chalkboard.
I brought over the little Seed tin I bought in England and added a single
hydrangea bloom.
And to tie it all together, more sun-washed, white shells were added to
a plain, white dish on top of some vintage book pages.
So, no it’s not officially Summer.
But, I am wearing flip-flops and shorts. And here in the South –
we call that “close enough.” 😀
How can you take this project and make it yours?
One of the best things I love about this easy project is you can
use any type of container you desire. How about an old coffee can
or vintage tin? How about an antique crock or wood box?
Create several smaller and mini topiaries by using three mismatched
teacups or mason jars.
Check out this easy DIY Chalkboard Quote 'What I Love Best About My Home Is Who I Share It With.'Click To TweetThen you can add moss, a small bird’s nest, or leave it as is.
Make It Yours!
I hope you have enjoyed this easy Ivy Topiary Tutorial.
I would love to hear back from you if you create one of your own.
Happy Gardening!
xxoo, Barb
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And now, I can’t wait for you to check out all of these
amazing Farmhouse Garden Containers for Farmhouse Friday.
Susan says
I love this Barbara! I’m definitely going to try this!!
View Commentpam says
I have that very same soup tureen! Love that your turned it into a topiary pot! Hope you have a wonderfully springy weekend!
View CommentNatalie Gallagher says
This is just lovely Barb! I agree with you about this being a difficult time of year to decorate. I tend to leave quite a bit of my Easter/spring decor up until after Memorial Day when summer is in full swing. I might just try my hand at this topiary! Thanks for sharing on Merry Monday
View CommentMarie says
This turned out fantastic! I love how you made the arch of ivy, too. Perfect decor piece for the season! Thanks for sharing with us at Merry Monday this week!
View CommentKarren Haller says
I found you on another Linky party. What a fun project, topiaries are wonderful and I love your instructions and would love to have you share on my Friday Features party.
Have a great weekend!
View CommentCrystal says
Such a beauitful and easy way to decorate! Great idea. Hope to see you again at #HomeMattersParty
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