Line two small glass bowls (same size and shape) with cling film and start layering the clay - not too thick, but not too thin or it won’t be a solid structure.

Once the bowl is covered on the inside, dip your finger in some water and smooth out the clay. Use your thumbs to press out and break off any excess over the edge of the bowl if you want a cleaner edge.

Then, take one of your bowl shapes and use a pointy tool to make holes in the clay for your stems to sit in. You can make as many or as few as you like, but have a think about the size of the stems you want to place in your Ikebana.

This bowl will be used to hold your stems, and the water will sit in the bottom of the second bowl.

Leave the clay to dry off slightly in the bowl (we recommend about 12 hours). Peel off the cling film first so the clay will dry quicker. Embrace the imperfections! We love how the ridges and bumps give a natural handmade look.

Use some water to smooth out any potential sharp bits around the edges that may dry hard and sharp, but the lumps and bumps can stay for added texture.

The two halves will then need to be left to fully dry out. You can also gently dry them with a hair dryer which speeds up the process. When they are dry, they’ll be much paler in colour and won't feel cold to the touch. Now you’re ready to paint and decorate!

Use an off-white colour first and completely cover the surfaces. Then using a watered down (50/50 water and paint) taupe colour, brush loose but broad strokes all over. Finish with a darker taupe colour over the off-white to add more texture. Seal with spray lacquer in a gloss finish.

Place dried flowers in the holes at the top of the Ikebana to hold them in place.