Page 8 - 3 Methods of Tree Shaping

2. Instant tree shaping (Arborsculpture)

Instant tree shaping starts with
trees 6–8 ft. (2–2.5 m) to 12 ft

(3.6 m) high with 3-4in (7.6-10
cm) diameter which are bent
into the desired design and

held until cast. This is still an
experimental process with
3 Methods of T
unpredictable results. Mature fast

growing trees are the preferred
learning tool. Richard Reames
created this process and is the

main advocate for Arborsculpture.
ree Shaping
He has published two books de- Arborsculpture bench by Richard Reames created using the
tailing his method of bending techniques as described in his books “How to grow a
trees. “How to grow a chair” chair” and “Arborsculpture” or his website

and “Arborsculpture” The work of www.Arborsculpture.com
planting, bending and securing trees with this process, might be

accomplished in an hour or perhaps in an afternoon depending on the design.

Below are some methods unique to Arborsculpture.

Bending is the technique of using mature tree whips (Unbranched, thin and

as long as possible are preferred) and pleaching them together to achieve a
design. If a tree is bend at too sharp an angle the tree breaks. This can be
mostly avoided by un-localizing the bend. This is achieved by making small

bends along the curve of the tree. These trees thus shaped are then held in
place for several years until the form is permanently cast. The trees growth

rate determines the time necessary to overcome its resistance to the initial
bending.

Creasing is folding trees such as willow and poplar over upon themselves,
which is a more radical technique then bending.

Ring barking is used to slow down the dominant branch allowing thinner
branches to catch up to help balance the design. There are five different
methods of ring barking for slowing the growth of a dominant branch in an

Arborsculpture design, from simple scoring to complete removal of 3/8in
(1cm) wide band of bark.

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