How to make an Autumn Ikebana Arrangement? - By Ilse Beunen
Keeping Warm
As the season shifts to autumn, the landscape transforms with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Leaves begin to change color and fall, offering a rich palette for ikebana arrangements. In this step-by-step guide, we'll focus on using leaves—particularly Bergenia leaves, known for their large, thick, and leathery texture, which turns a stunning red in autumn.
I had a bunch of Bergenia leaves and was contemplating how to use them. While I was playing around with the leaves, I started to fold them, and they reminded me of a blanket. Building on the idea of a quilt, I placed one leaf over the other as if the blanket casually hung over the rim of the vase, keeping the flowers warm.
Don't worry if Bergenia leaves aren’t available; any similar leaves can be used, giving you the chance to explore and experiment with the season’s natural beauty. Let’s get creative and embrace the warmth and colors of fall in this arrangement!
Step 1
Make a cross bar fixation. If you don't know how to make a cross bar fixation start with this video.
Step 2
Fold the leaf double. Place the stem over the cross fixation in the top right quadrant. The bottom of the stem should rests against the inside of the vase.
Step 3
Fold the next leaf and place it over the previous one, as shown in the picture. Keep adding folded leaves; alternate the openings of the leaves to the left and right. The first three leaves are placed downwards. Subsequent leaves are gradually placed upright.
Step 4
Add the Gerbera on different levels
Ikebana Autumn Arrangement - Final Result
