ReadyMade: Instructions for everyday life

Issue 46
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Make wine crate cabinets
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Tiny Terrariums

by Jen Turner

Photos by Greg Maxson

Rhonda Gurney has been foraging for terrarium-worthy treasures in the forests of New Hampshire ever since her Polish grandmother taught her the art 30 years ago. Here, Rhonda shares with us her know-how for making and giving your own. Crafter’s Market, 603.763.2248

    1. Wash the container thoroughly with soapy water and rinse well. (Cleaning agents will harm the botanicals.)

    2. Fill the bottom with about an inch of sand (less for a small container as you don’t want to see the sand, or more for a tall container to give it a layered look).

    3. Place about a teaspoon of charcoal (to absorb odor and help filter water) in the center of the sand.

    4. Forage the understory of your local forest! Place the moss over the sand to create a pillow for the plants. If the moss you find grows on wood, be sure to place some twigs underneath it.

    5. Using the pencil, dig a hole in the moss and sand. Place the plant roots in the hole all the way down in the sand.

    6. Place the top over the completed arrangement. To maintain, remove the container’s top and fan some air into it. If condensation appears, take the top off and allow it to air out. If things start to dry out, add a drop or two of water.

Tiny Terrarium

ingredients

    • Glass container (apothecary jar, beaker, or candy bowl will work) with a top (glass or cork) with room for your hand to fit
    • Sand (not too gravelly)
    • Activated charcoal (from the aquarium section of a pet store)
    • Moss
    • Small plants with roots, such as berries, ferns, and pines (choose plants that grow in the shade, as they are slow growing and easier on the upkeep)

tools

    • Pencil
    • Tweezers (optional)