Crafting a Stunning Tropical Leaf Umbrella for the New Adomex Calendar

At Bloemenmeisjes, we are honored to contribute to Adomex's annual calendar, showcasing innovative uses of their high-quality greens. Adomex, a renowned wholesaler of premium greens, provided us with the finest materials from their OrcaGreen label, making this project both a pleasure and a testament to the beauty of natural materials. This is how we created our tropical leaf umbrella.

Inspiration for My Tropical Leaf Umbrella

Our green leaf umbrella draws inspiration from multiple sources.

Firstly, using large leaves as natural umbrellas dates back to ancient times when people used leaves as the first form of protection against the elements. This ancient practice is deeply rooted in the use of nature's resources to create practical solutions.

Secondly, during a visit to Korea to participate in the 2024 Goyang Flower Grand Prix in South Korea, we were captivated by the green artistry displayed there. This experience reminded us of the diverse uses of leaves across Asia, particularly the intricate folding techniques seen in Thailand. The blend of these cultural influences inspired us to create an umbrella that embodies both tradition and modern innovation.

Materials Used

Thanks to Adomex, we had access to an array of premium OrcaGreen products, including:

• Beargrass - Xerophyllum tenax
• Cat Palm - Chamaedorea cataractarum
• Cocos Leaf - Chamaedorea ernesti-augustii
• Coral Fern - Gleichenia polypodioides
• Cordyline (Green Tie) - Cordyline fruticosa
• Leather Fern - Rumohra adiantiformis
• Palm - Serenoa repens
• Phoenix Roebelenii
• Typha - Aristea confuse

These materials were essential in bringing our vision to life, supported by cold and hot glue for secure attachment.

Step-by-Step Creation Process

This is how I went about crafting my tropical umbrella, so please follow my steps:

1. Collecting the Greens: Leveraging the best quality greens from Adomex ensured a strong foundation for our project. Their expertise in providing premium greens was invaluable.
2. Preparing the Materials: Lay the greens on a table to see how they work together, considering structure and texture. This process is like composing a symphony, where each leaf plays a crucial role in harmony.
3. Choosing the Umbrella: We selected a neutral-colored umbrella to avoid any visibility through the leaves. The umbrella serves as the canvas for our green masterpiece.
4. Covering the Frame: Starting with cocoa leaves to cover the umbrella frame, we then layered decorative greens using traditional Thai-inspired techniques. This layering technique ensures a lush, full appearance, reminiscent of a dense tropical canopy.
5. Attaching the Leaves: Applying glue to the leaves instead of the umbrella allowed for precise placement and a seamless appearance. This method ensures that the integrity of the umbrella is maintained while showcasing the natural beauty of the greens.

Pro Tips for Creating a Green Leaf Umbrella

For the perfect result, I can give you some additional tips:

• Glue the leaves: Apply glue directly to the leaves for precise placement. This prevents the glue from seeping through and becoming visible.
• Use gloves: Protect your hands from hot glue and ensure better control while attaching the leaves. Gloves act as a barrier, making the process more comfortable and efficient.
• Hold the leaves: Securely press the leaves by holding the umbrella from both sides. This technique ensures the leaves adhere properly without damaging the structure.
• Take pictures: Regularly photograph your work to spot any asymmetry or gaps, ensuring a polished final product. Photos offer a different perspective, revealing imperfections that might be missed by the naked eye.

Enjoying the Process and Final Product

Creating this umbrella was a delightful and creative process. We faced challenges, like ensuring the umbrella remained the focal point in photographs without overshadowing the model. My assistant Maïta, who modeled for the photoshoot, played a crucial role in bringing this project to life. We discovered that covering the entire surface with leaves first, using cocoa leaves as a base, provided a seamless look. The decision to focus on the umbrella rather than the model ensured that the intricate design was the star of the show.

This project allowed us to blend different cultural elements and showcase our innovative floral design skills, reflecting the ethos of Bloemenmeisjes. The green leaf umbrella, with its vibrant array of greens meticulously arranged, is not just an accessory but a work of art. The leaves, with their varied textures and shades of green, create a mesmerizing pattern that captivates the eye and sparks the imagination.

The Beauty and Versatility of Natural Materials

The green leaf umbrella is my take on the beauty and versatility of the natural materials of Adomex's own brand OrcaGreen. When you are one of the lucky people who have received the 2025 Adomex calendar I hope you enjoy my design every time you look at it.

We encourage readers to try making their own and share their creations. Visit Bloemenmeisjes and Bloement for more inspiring floral designs and creative ideas. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to Adomex’s annual calendar and to share our passion for floral artistry with a broader audience. This project is not just a display of creativity but a celebration of the rich traditions and innovative techniques from around the world.