Seemingly intricate, easy-to-make wire plant supports are works of garden art

…and the collective unconscious!  Out of 31+ projects in my latest book Handmade Garden Projects, this one – hands down –  stands out as a perennial favorite across the board.  I’ll admit – it’s probably my favorite as well but not for obvious reasons.  I love the seemingly intricate finished product and endless variations, but mostly I love the QUIET!

I’m all for power tools indoors when they make life easier: chopping, sawing, drilling and the like.  Delicious things happen when I power up my  food processor; the blast of the range hood – and my hair dryer for that matter – fall into the category of necessary evils.  Unfortunately vacuuming doesn’t make my noise-approval list and I’m afraid it shows – although I’m pretty good with a trusty broom.

I’m far less forgiving of outdoor NOISE: blowers, mowers, and the like jangle my nerves.  But I’ve spent many a peaceful puttering afternoon in the back garden blissfully crimping and bending humble wire fencing to the sounds of birdsong and neighbor kids playing outdoors (remember when you played outdoors from dawn to dusk???)

Organic twining vine support

With the intricacy of a spider web and the allure of lace, this sculptural plant support crafted from galvanized fencing elevates humble materials to high art.  I appreciate these beautiful forms as much for their seemingly complicated and beautiful network of ripples and crimps as for the support they offering scrambling vines and billowing perennials.

Join the fun with me at a Wire Work Workshop next Thursday, April 5th at Ravenna Gardens in Seattle, one of my favorite local garden emporiums.  A regular stop on my retail rounds - even if all I leave with is inspiration –  I can’t resist this shop’s artful, color-driven displays of pots and garden accessories mixed with vintage finds and cool industrial repurposed “stuff” – to say nothing of their small-but-choice, drool-worthy plant selection.

Your $38 workshop fee includes all materials and a copy of my book!  I’ll furnish the (quiet) tools and you’ll go home with an beautifully intricate wire garden sculpture that’s easy-peasy to make.  Class size is limited so call 206.729.7388 to reserve your spot today.