The emotional impact of Isolation is real, and the aftermath of being locked in a house for months has inspired us all to long to reconnect with nature. That’s probably why so many of us are leaning towards finding and creating beauty, beauty at home right now. And while recent lockdowns have made it harder for us to get outside, there’s one simple way we can bring the outdoors in: decorative tree branches.
If there is a real person pushed this trend into popular culture it’s the design phenom, Athena Calderone belong to EyeSwoon. The multi-hyphen creation became famous with her decorative branches, cutting large-scale tree branches outside her home and arranging them in vintage vases (another trend we all love). is seeing on Instagram led by Calderone!).
Athena explains: “I just love bringing in the outdoors and have always wanted to bring something seasonal and natural into my home. “I also like the sculptural quality and the wild and bohemian nature of the branches in a delicate space. I like that they provide verticality. “We couldn’t agree more.
So, who better to ask for tips on styling twigs in jars at home than Calderone himself. Read on for her advice on things to consider when cutting, arranging, and styling your hair.
Three things to consider before Cut fresh branches…
Shake them off in an attempt to eliminate the creature. That said, you have to embrace the possibility.
Use a sharp trimmer. It seems simple enough but invest in stocks or garden scissors is essential to trim the branches of this scale. Kitchen scissors won’t cut it.
Make sure the branch isn’t poisonous — especially to animals. That said my husband developed a rash once all over his body and we found out a few weeks later it was from the branches of our Sumac tree!
Choose your branch…
It could be anything, really, but look for moving and sculpting branches. Less is usually more. Also, be aware that the tree is alive so take only what you need.
Add H20 then let them dry…
I always add water in the beginning but I usually let them dry to see if they bring out more or a different kind of beauty once dry.
Choose your ship…
Find something big and heavy to hold the weight. If you love the look of a classic ship, Etsy has plenty but also affordable options out there.
And don’t forget…
Use a hammer to hit the bottom of the branch. Apparently, it allows the branch to absorb more water and prolong its life.
For more Athena tricks, visit EyeSwoon.com Then start making your own at home with our favorite vases, decorative (or decorative) twigs, and gardening accessories below…
Vase of flowers
Branch
Tools
This post was originally published on December 4, 2020, and has since been updated.
