HOW TO MAKE A TERRARIUM, MINIATURE GARDENS INSIDE GLASS BOWLS..

First we start with collecting driftwood. So I go to one of my favourite spots on the river and look for what I am after.
I want two different pieces of wood for two different looks.
Here I have found a piece and I will trim the edges with the saw, wash it clean, scrub it and then sand and wire brush, before I stain with natural and non toxic linseed oil.

BEFORE: AN UNWANTED BLOCK THATS AT LEAST 60 YEARS OLD FOUND FLOATING IN THE MANGROVES.

AFTER: ALL READY TO GO, IT LOOKS LIKE PINK BLOOD WOOD IT'S REALLY SOLID HARD WOOD.

The next bit of driftwood is an old piece of western red cedar, and has twists with more of a natural look.

BEFORE:

AFTER: WASHED CLEAN AND WIRE BRUSHED REMOVING ANY LOOSE PIECES.
I'm undecided if I am going to oil this one.

NOW I HAVE MY TIMBER IT'S TIME TO CHOOSE MY GLASS BOWL!!!

I WILL HAVE ONE OF THOSE PLEASE.

AND ONE OF THOSE TOO. $7 AND $9 EACH THEY COST ME..

Now its time to put it all together.

So here is my table outside. I have washed quartz and granite Riverstone. I have some nice composty humus with course bark. Some assorted plants, minuture succulents and air plants. My tear drop vase which I have already placed my soil mix in and a glass that needs filling. How can an artist work without a little red wine.

GRAVEL WILL BE USED THROUGH THE SOIL AND AS A DECORATIVE MULCH.

BEAUTIFUL SOIL, IT'S FLUFFY AND FULL OF NUTRIENTS.

I like to mix 60% soil with 40% gravel. This is the perfect drainage solution for the succulents because they don't require much water and if they do they will get rott.

Once the soil is in you can do whatever you desire with you're plants.
I work on a couple of rules height at the back and work your way down to the front so all of your plants can be seen. Remember that the size of the plants will dictate this.
Second shape and colour, and ballance will make a big difference. In a small space each plant needs to stand out and tell a story.
The gravel as a mulch is decorative and should compliment the plants. Don'pt be afraid to put some larger pieces in to keep it natural.
Placing everything in the bowls can be tricky. Use small tongs, spoons and make your own tools to accommodate large hands.
Finally you only have to water once a week with a spray bottle.

Building garden.

FINISHED PRODUCT.

STANDING ON THE BASE STAND.

THIS IS THE SECOND PIECE OF DRIFTWOOD FOR A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT LOOK.

I hope you like this Terrarium, which stand did you like?

Stay tuned for my next one.

Content and photos by Sanddrift.