Ikebana

Book excerpt: Using colorful illustrations this multicultural children's book introduces readers to Japanese Ikebana. Ikebana, the ancient Japanese art of flower arranging, has never been easier—or more fun! This colorful, easy–to–follow guide will walk you through the steps of 10 different ikebana projects. Before you know it, you'll be creating your very own unique and beautiful flower arrangements. Creating flower arrangements is a great way to explore this time-honored Japanese art form. Following the step–by–step instructions, you'll learn to arrange how to create: Kenzan Moribana—a basic style using a low, open container Nageire Ikebana—formal arrangements that balance length and weight Suiban (Water Platter) Ikebana—the earliest form of Ikebana, using a shallow platter filled with water Natural Style Ikebana—arrangements that imitate nature Once you've created your own arrangements, you can display them or give them as gifts, sharing a part of nature—and your creativity—with the people around you.