Materials for Pens: Bic pens (or similar) with opaque barrels and removable plug at the end
Floral tape
Silk flowers
Glue (hot glue with glue gun or strong glue such as E6000)
Small pliers
Scissors Note: Don't use pens with clear-plastic barrels -- they have a tendency to crack. - Pull out the plug at the end of the pen with small pliers.
- Pull the flowers off the stem or trim the stem short enough (approximately 1/2") (figure A) to go just inside the end of the pen.
- Place glue just on the inside of the end of the pen, being careful not to cover the ink tube with glue -- this can disturb the flow of the ink.
- Insert the flower into the end of the pen.
- Let dry standing up in beans (see Pot materials, below).
- If glue gun is used, let dry approximately 10 minutes.
- If E6000 or similar glue is used, let dry several hours or overnight.
- To wrap the floral tape around the pen, start at the writing end, holding the tape in place with one hand and gently pulling to wrap around the tip (figure B). Press in place. Continue wrapping the tape around the pen until you reach the other end. Cut tape and press to secure it onto the pen.
Materials for Pots: Miniature terra-cotta or ceramic pots
Miniature watering cans
Paint
Paintbrush or spray paint
For the pots, use acrylic, fabric or glass paint
For the watering cans, use metal paint
Optional: sponge for paint, trim and glue
Split peas, lentils or black beans to use as the "dirt" (figure C) - Use spray paint or a brush to paint the pot (figure D). Let dry.
- You can also apply a second color with an ordinary dish sponge. Pour a small amount of paint onto a paper plate and dip with a wet sponge, then dab the sponge onto the pot (figure E).
- Trim is easily glued on for a finishing touch.
- Pour beans into the pots for the "dirt" and place the pens in the pot.
Gift-Giving Suggestion -- The flowerpot pens work best wrapped in cellophane with a ribbon tied at the base of the flower stem to keep from "spilling the beans". Products: Available at craft, art and discount stores nationwide.
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