Plant Theaters

Recreate a plant theater--small three-sided stages used in the Victorian era to showcase exotic plants. Figure A

Materials:

beadboard
pine 1" x 4" boards
nails
hammer
pencil
jigsaw
acrylic paints (cream, light and dark lilac)
paintbrushes
paint pens
plant
moss

Steps:

1. Cut the pine boards to create a three-sided box with a pitched roof and cover the back with beadboard. Lightly sand the structure if necessary.

2. Place a second piece of beadboard over the front opening and use a pencil to draw a curtain shape on the back of it (figure A). Cut the curtain shapes out with a jigsaw and nail them in place.

3. Paint entire surface inside and out with two coats of cream, allowing it to dry between layers. Let dry.

4. Paint curtains using a combination of the lilac colors. While wet, add soft red streaks to simulate curtain folds. Let dry.

5. Add details (accent folds, tiebacks, tassels, etc.) to the curtains with paint pens.

6. Place a special plant inside and surround the base with moss.

Guests
Tammy Algood
Gardening Expert, University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service
Nashville, TN 37211-5112
Phone: 615-834-5162
Email: talgood1@utk.edu
Also in this Episode

Decorating With Style : Episode DWS-1147
•	Plant Theaters
•	Hanging Florals
•	Beaded Fruits and Flowers
•	Plumbing Fixture Lights