Magnificent Miniature Trees

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Now, to assure that the trunk doesn't come apart, divide the wires on each end into bundles. The shorter pieces left on one end of the trunk will represent the roots, and they should be separated into thinner bunches than are the longer wires — which will be the limbs — on the other end. Be sure to twist each of the root bundles several times — always in the same direction — to secure the trunk. Next, divide the top of the tree into several large branches and give each one of these a few twists.

With that done, proceed to develop each branch by twisting the wires a few turns, separating the bundles wherever you'd like to form a fork, twisting again, and continuing until only a single wire is left at the tip of the branch. Then you can turn the tree around, and divide and twist your root system (which will consist of a greater number of less complicated "limbs").

When all the branches and roots have been formed, it's time to give them their final shapes. If the sculpture is to be placed on a rock or piece of wood, you'll want to work the roots into the nooks and crannies just as if the tree had grown there . . . or, if it's to stand in a green "meadow" of shag carpet, just flatten the roots until they're parallel with the surface, and press them into the pile of the rug.

A TOUCH OF ELEGANCE

To add a bird's nest to your creation, simply wind some fine wire around a finger or pencil . . . manipulate it into shape . . . and attach it to a fork in the tree. Tiny pearl-bead "eggs", secured in place by a drop or two of glue, provide a perfect finishing touch. Miniature birds may also be positioned on your trees, and you can hang red beads (to simulate apples or cherries) from the limbs of orchard varieties.

When created with care and attention to detail, these tiny wire trees can be astoundingly beautiful — and valuable — works of art.

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