To make is human. To craft is divine. To me, these are words to live by.
What makes crafters like me so obsessed? I think we realize the importance of embracing the wonderful imperfection of the homemade. At the same time, I am obsessed with all things relating to nature. When I discovered Caitlin Atkinson’s new book, Plant Craft: 30 Projects that Add Natural Style to Your Home, I was completely enthralled—here was a book where natural and crafting perfectly meet.
Photography by Caitlin Atkinson courtesy of Timber Press.
![Atkinson (who also is a contributor to Gardenista), says, \2\20;There is no better way to harness the desire to create, connect, and enjoy nature than an indoor garden project.\2\2\1; I completely agree.](https://media.gardenista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/staghorn-fern-plant-craft-caitlin-atkinson-733x1100.jpg)
Here’s a look at a few of my favorite projects from the book:
Bromeliad Stump Garden
![In the book, a materials and tools list is provided to make a DIY stump garden, along with step-by-step instructions. All projects can be completed in \1 to \2 hours.](https://media.gardenista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/p160T_stump_CA-733x1100.jpg)
Hanging Rock Gardens
![Learn to make an intriguing hanging rock garden where orchids suspend on lava rocks.](https://media.gardenista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/p147_orchid_CA--733x1100.jpg)
Another inspiring aspect of the book is that Atkinson offers expert advice on growing and maintaining indoor plants, plus decorating tips on bringing nature into your life.
Moss Ball Water Sculptures
![Perhaps the simplest project in the book is this water sculpture made with moss balls. I made my own version with a vase I had on hand, and now I enjoy my quiet new water \2\20;pets.\2\2\1;](https://media.gardenista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/p219_marimo_CA-733x1100.jpg)
The author is a trifecta of creativity: she is a photographer, stylist, and crafter, and so it is no wonder that her talent and visual sense come through in each project.
![A hardcover copy of Plant Craft: 30 Projects That Add Natural Style to Your Home is \$\16.63 on Amazon.](https://media.gardenista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/plant-craft-book-caitlin-atkinson-733x350.jpg)
For more garden inspiration, browse our Required Reading archives and read our recent reviews of:
- W.S. Merwin, the Poet Gardener.
- Evergreen, Living with Plants.
- Ruth Bancroft’s Bold Dry Garden.
- House of Plants: Living with Succulents, Air Plants, and Cacti.
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