Page 5 - 3 Methods of Tree Shaping

Introduction

No one really knows how many different methods there are. At the

moment there are very few known practitioners of this art form, Introduction
approximately 17, three of whom are dead. Very few have published
anything so their exact methods are unknown. In this book we are going

to talk about the pros and cons of the few published approaches. Some
techniques used for shaping trees are unique to a particular process,

whereas other techniques are common to all, though the implementation
may be for different reasons.

1. There is growing roots aeroponicly, being researched by Plantware.org
they are researching the viability of tree roots as a predictable building

material, mainly with figs. The intention is to shape the 6 meter+ long
roots then planting them, thus creating almost instant living structures.

2. There is the instant tree shaping process of Richard Reames as published
in his book “How to grow a chair” in 1995, called Arborsculpture. Basically
it’s a 3 dimensional form of pleaching. Richard attempted to calculate how

Axel Erlandson shaped his trees and then published a book on Richard ‘s
theories.This book was publish very early in Richard’s experiments with

the Arborsculpture process, before any results were known.

3. There is the gradual tree shaping method mastered by Axel N Erlandson

early in the 20th century, sadly he died with his tree shaping secrets.
The gradual shaping methods were rediscovered by Dr Chris Cattle and
Pooktre. Both have developed their process independently from all other

tree shapers. Dr Chris Cattle came from the point of view of creating
better and sustainable furniture, whereas Pooktre started from the

question “I wonder if I can grow a chair“. It involves a daily or weekly
training of the trees’ new growth to achieve even and balanced growth.

Tree shapers usually start with an idea of the intended outcome. Some
artists like Axel Erlandson and Pooktre start with detailed drawings, or
designs, and then train the tree to that design. Other artists like Richard

Reames start with a concept, he then bends and weaves trees to instantly
form his idea.

To successfully shape trees you ought to understand

the pros & cons of these process.

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