pine branch

[Inadv]

Errol,

Standard telephone wire is 22 guage copper in a plastic sheathing, and is pretty inexpensive as well. The 4 individual wires inside are color coded, usually black, yellow, red, and green. They could easily be soldered onto either brass or copper tubing in clusters of either 2, 3, or 5 to emulate the needles of whatever species of pine you are trying to imitate. This would likely be a bit easier than drilling holes and gluing them in place if you have the right tools. Tip: Use a good fluxing compound and lightly sand the area to be soldered with emory paper to prepare the surface.

Another thought is to use the real mcoy with a preservative sprayed on. I know I have seen this done in floral arrangements at the bonsai exhibition that I try to attend annually at the Asheville Arboretum. A call to your local florist might provide you with the substance they use and perhaps even a source for it.

Good luck, and by all means please tell us what you end up using.

[errol]

Ian, thank you for all the useful information. You have been a big help and given me ideas. I will look in my 05 WFC also.

[errol]

Inadv, Thank you for the reply and the information. I also visit the Asheville Arboretum the last 3 yrs. It is really awsome!. I usually spend a couple months in Waynesville/Maggie valley area every summer. thanks again
Errol

[Lynn O. Doughty]

I'd go over the the phoney flower section of Hobby Lobby and see what they have. Might find just what you're looking for to make what you want. One thing for sure, make sure you make the branch out of material that will stand up over time. Things like broom straws or soft wire will bend or break over time. Here's a link that might help.
Habitat Supplies - Woodcarving Supplies from Quality Wood Carving Supply