Design element: layering.

Layering is a design element that builds depth and adds interest to a design grouping.



 

The table runner fabric in these photos provides a soft, woven texture and functions to anchor the design grouping.  In the first photograph, I started with a burgundy pottery leaf.



 

Note the difference in these photos of the pillar candle alone on the leaf and the picture below with the finishing touch of the added birch bark ring.

The natural elements included in the grouping- pine cones, bundled sticks, and a ring of birch bark add texture and contrast the glossier finish on the pottery vase and leaf. Everything comes together to give a simple, natural outdoors look the client desired.

Resources:  1.  Bundled sticks- Whimsey Green occasional sale, Dassel, MN
                    2.  Pottery vase- thrift store
                    3.  Pottery leaf-  Finders Keepers, Monticello, MN
                    4.  Table runner- fabric Mills End, St. Cloud MN
                            sewn by Ruth Anderson, Cokato, MN
                    5.  Pine cones-  thrift store
                    6.  Birch bark ring-  nature walk find in northern MN