Join Chef Nicholas Lodge for an in-depth two-part masterclass on crafting the exquisite Dogwood flower, right from your home studio. This session not only revisits some foundational techniques but also introduces new methods perfected with the launch of the Katy Sue Measuring Mould.

Creating Dogwood Centres

Immature Centres: Begin by preparing two compact centres. Wrap twelve 30 gauge green wires with quarter-width brown floral tape, setting them at varying angles for a natural look. Form small green paste balls, shape them into sausages, and press them onto the wires, ensuring tight clusters. Duplicate this process for a second centre.

Mature Centre: Mimic the steps for the compact centre, but include an additional step of crafting smaller buds, shaping them into lilac-like blossoms. Attach these to wires and arrange around the centre for a full bloom effect.

Crafting Dogwood Petals

Petals: Fashion a custom petal cutter from an aluminium drinks can. Roll white paste thin, cut with your handmade cutter, and vein using the Flower Pro Peony Mould for texture. Dry each petal in a curved form for a natural appearance.

Assembling the Dogwood

Assembly: Arrange and tape the petals and centres along the wire stems. Colour the base of petals with a blend of green and brown dust for depth. Assemble the flowers, adjusting the petals for a lifelike appearance.

Adding Final Touches

Leaves and Buds: Shape leaves and buds using moulds and green paste. Wire, texture, and dust each component before assembling them into your floral arrangement.

Finishing: Combine all elements—centres, petals, leaves, and buds—along a floral wire. Integrate with other flowers like magnolias for a diverse Spring Flowering Trees display.

This tutorial not only guides you through each meticulous step but also helps you understand the subtleties of floral assembly, ensuring your creations are both stunning and realistic. Join us in this detailed exploration of floral artistry with Chef Nicholas Lodge.

Watch now and start creating your own Dogwood masterpiece! Join us in part 2 to complete your project.