Page:Japanese flower arrangement.djvu/91

 and the first and second fingers above. The thumbs must be kept close together while you bend, as the stems will break if the thumbs are separated. Bend the stem into proper shape by pressing up with the thumbs and pulling down with the first and second fingers. Try to twist the stem a trifle as you bend. Do not hold the pressure too long on any one part of the stem, but keep the fingers moving along the stem back and forth for the distance of the desired curve. All flowers and branches will be found easier to bend and will hold their curves better if, before arranging, they are placed in deep water in tubs or pitchers, for over night if possible; always for one hour at least before arranging. The chill taken off the water will also make the stems more pliable.

These large, tough branches can sometimes be bent by hand pressure, especially branches of spring blossoms, such as the [85]