A Day of Creativity and Connection: Foraged Flower Crown Workshop with Clara Stickney
On a sunny Saturday morning, I had the pleasure of attending the Foraged Flower Crown Workshop with the talented Clara Stickney at the Farm. It was an experience filled with creativity, nature, and community, and I'm excited to share the highlights of this wonderful day with you.
The day began with a scenic walk from the kitchen garden, through a temperate forest filled with ferns, morning rue, wild geraniums, and moss-covered rocks. As we made our way along the forest road, Clara's enthusiasm for the natural world was infectious. She pointed out various plants and flowers, sharing interesting tidbits and stories about each one. This leisurely walk led us to the greenhouse and then down to the lower wildflower field, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead.
Learning to Identify Poison Ivy
Before diving into the flower crown-making process, Clara gave us an essential lesson on how to identify poison ivy. This was particularly useful as we would be foraging for materials in the wild. Clara's clear explanations and helpful tips ensured that we all felt confident and safe while gathering our supplies.
Foraging for Materials
With our newfound knowledge, we set off to forage for materials. Clara encouraged us to use invasive species like Autumn Olive for the bases of our crowns. This not only helped control the spread of these plants but also provided a sturdy and flexible framework for our creations. As we explored the lower wildflower field, we collected a bounty of lupines, daisies, golden alexanders, dried grasses, clover, and many other fun elements to add to our crowns.
Creating Beautiful Biodegradable Headwear
Back at our crafting area, Clara guided us through the process of creating our flower crowns. She demonstrated how to weave the Autumn Olive branches into a circular base and then how to attach the various flowers and grasses. Her patient instruction and artistic insights helped everyone, from beginners to seasoned crafters, create beautiful and unique crowns.
The atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie as we worked on our crowns. It was a joy to see the variety of designs and to share tips and ideas with fellow participants. Clara's passion for sustainable and biodegradable crafts shone through, inspiring us all to appreciate the beauty and utility of the natural materials around us.
A Memorable Experience
By the end of the workshop, we each had a stunning flower crown to take home and a deeper appreciation for the art of foraging and sustainable crafting. The Foraged Flower Crown Workshop with Clara Stickney was more than just a craft class; it was an opportunity to connect with nature, learn valuable skills, and be part of a community of like-minded individuals.
If you're looking for a creative and enriching experience, I highly recommend attending one of Clara's workshops at Wally Farms. It's a delightful way to spend a day, learn something new, and take home a beautiful piece of nature-inspired art. If you want to join us again at the farm, the next workshop with Clara is in August. Check out the calendar for details.
