Container tree, part 1
I made a small tree, but instead of planting this one in the ground, I wanted a container tree that I could reposition. I'm using the same wire and putty technique I've used in the past for the trunk, and candytuft for the foliage - notes at the bottom.
I measured the wire structure against the wall to make sure I had good height.
I used a clamp covered with plastic wrap to hold the tree while protecting the clamp.
Applying the putty.
Painting the tree.
Painting the separated candytuft branches -- I ended up making quite a few more than shown here.
Ghost is modeling to show the smaller stature of the tree.
I built a container from basswood and small scale siding from my box of scraps.
I wanted something compact but believable in proportion to the tree.
I stained the planter box with Minwax stain, the color is Fruitwood.
I coated the interior with a heavy layer of tacky glue. This will seal it for when I get to planting the tree.
More to come....
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Notes: Link to the first tree I made using this technique - follow the links in the first sentence back through the process.
A good starting source if you can find it is the DVD Master Miniaturists: Landscaping Primer with Diane Myrick. I got mine through interlibrary loan. This whole series is just awesome!
This is the tutorial by Connie Sauve on using candytuft for the foliage. I doubt I will go back to using individual leaves again unless I want a specific type of tree where candytuft won't work. :]
I buy candytuft from Scenery Solutions.
10 comments

Yes, I had to switch gears when the first project idea didn't work as I wanted. Better to start over than to be disappointed with the direction it was going.

I love Interlibrary Loan! I use it all the time.
