Hello Lisa.

Welcome back to another edition of THE PENCIL CASE! As always, each issue focuses on a theme to encourage a fresh look at garden design and graphics. This week, let's explore DRAWING YOUR PLANTS as a way to learn about them. ♥︎

MANY WAYS TO LEARN PLANTS

As gardeners we strive to learn as many plants as possible. We increase our knowledge by weeding around them, taking photos and notes, visiting gardens and nurseries, plus simply working with them daily.

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Another fabulous way to learn details of a plant is to draw it. In this newsletter we'll discuss the finer details of a plant, but know that as a designer, it's also important to step back and understand the overall FORM.

EXPLORE THE DETAILS

When we draw a plant we're forced to look at the details. Are the leaves opposite or alternate? Are the leaves simple or complex? What shape are the leaves and how do the veins run through them? How many petals are on the flower? Are the flowers clustered or single? To draw a plant we're forced to study and understand it. Imagine drawing a plant in different seasons too....how does it change?

SIMPLIFY YOUR DRAWING

When drawing the details of a plant I attempt to simplify the parts into their most basic forms in order to recreate them.  A few years ago I created a short video showing how I draw a branch of peking cotoneaster (Cotoneaster acutifolius) using this simplified method. I definitely feel a special connection with this shrub each time I walk past it in the garden now.

MY COTONEASTER VIDEO

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Purchase a pretty sketchbook and draw a different plant each day. By the end of the year you'll have a plethora of plants in your mental collection. As a bonus, check out this lovely article by Lizzie Harper about her thoughts and approach to drawing plants too.

MORE DESIGN GOODNESS

Did you know I am exploring front yard designs for Georgia Clay at Monrovia Nursery? Check out my visit with her earlier this year in this VIDEO. You can learn about the three design options HERE, plus learn which one Georgia chose HERE. 

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A couple of weeks ago we had our first PLANTING DESIGN 101 MASTERCLASS. It was super fun and now I'm getting requests for the recording. If you'd like to view it I'l have it available through the end of June.

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Need design inspiration now? You're welcome to join our 10x10 GARDEN DESIGN TIPS email journey for only $10.

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If you know someone that needs design inspiration, please feel free to share this newsletter. Anyone can subscribe right here. I also keep a VAULT of past issues in this secret location.

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Happy spring,

Lisa 

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PAPER GARDEN WORKSHOP

Thank you to Mandy Orgler for designing the lovely graphics in all these newsletters.