Dare to Experiment
Working with recycled plastics opens up a surprising world of creative possibilities.
PET bottles, plexi, acrylic sheets, colored plastics, packaging materials, drainpipes, plastic folders… materials we normally overlook suddenly become tools for experimentation.
And that changes something important.
 
When working with fresh materials, many people hesitate. Branches and flowers can feel precious. Expensive. Difficult to replace. That hesitation often limits experimentation before ideas even begin.  Recycled plastics create a different mindset.
They invite you to drill, heat, bend, crunch, cut, tear apart, rebuild, and discover unexpected structures, colors, transparency, and movement.
 
In the first Zoom session, Ilse will demonstrate a range of accessible techniques and possibilities. Not to create one fixed result, but to encourage exploration and help you discover your own direction.
 
You’ll then have a week to experiment and create your own arrangement or installation-inspired piece. During the second session, Ilse will provide personal feedback, helping you refine your ideas and push them further.
 
What You’ll Learn:
Experiment Without Fear:  Use inexpensive recycled materials to explore ideas more freely and playfully.
Discover Creative Possibilities in Plastics: Work with PET, plexi, acrylic, colored plastics, plastic folders, packaging materials, drainpipes, and more.
Transform Everyday Materials:  Learn how cutting, heating, drilling, crunching, and tearing can lead to new ideas and unexpected forms.
Learn to Use Simple Tools:  Become more comfortable using basic tools and construction techniques as part of your creative process.
Choose Your Own Direction:  Adapt the techniques to your tools, your level, and your curiosity.
 
Why Join?
Become less hesitant and more experimental in your creative process.
Discover how unconventional materials can generate completely new ideas.
Learn through doing, testing, and refining.
Expand your ikebana practice beyond traditional materials and approaches.
 
Reserve your spot today.
 
How does it work?
The workshop is in two parts:
Interactive Workshop Schedule:
Zoom Session 1 (90 minutes): Participate in a demonstration that covers techniques, materials, and sources of inspiration. You'll receive an assignment and access to an online platform where session recordings and additional workshop content are available. If you cannot attend the live session, the recording will be accessible for later viewing.
Assignment Week: Dedicate a week to create your arrangement. Interact with Ilse and fellow participants via the online platform.
Zoom Session 2 (90 minutes): A week following the first session, Ilse will provide live feedback on your arrangement. To accommodate various schedules, three commenting sessions are available at:
• 10:00 AM CEST
• 15:00 PM CEST
• 17:00 PM CEST
You will receive the Zoom link to all three, and you can choose the session that fits your schedule.
During the commenting session you participate in, Ilse will give personalized commentary on your work. All sessions will be recorded, and you will have access to these recordings for one month post-workshop, ensuring you can revisit the insights and feedback at your convenience.
 
FAQ
What kinds of plastics can I use?
You can work with many different types of recycled plastics and synthetic materials:
PET bottles
Plexi / acrylic
Colored plastics
Plastic folders and presentation maps
Packaging materials
Drainpipes
Transparent or opaque plastic pieces
The goal is not to find perfect materials, but to start experimenting with what is available around you.
 
Starter recommendations:
Start with lightweight materials that are easy to cut or shape
Small pieces are enough to begin experimenting
Transparent and colored plastics both create interesting effects
Offcuts, leftover materials, and packaging can often become unexpected creative tools
 
I don’t have tools like a drill or heat gun.
No problem. The workshop shows a few key techniques, but you choose what fits your setup. Simple approaches without specialized tools are included.
 
I’m afraid it’s too technical.
We keep it accessible. The goal is to get started, not to master everything. You’ll pick one direction that feels manageable.
 
What if my result is very simple?
That’s perfectly fine. A clear, simple solution often works best. The feedback session helps you refine it further.
 
Do I need experience with installations?
No. If you already have some ikebana experience, you can translate it into this new material and way of working.
 
What if I can’t attend live?
You’ll have access to the recordings. You can follow the demonstration and watch the feedback sessions afterward.
 
Will I get personal feedback?
Yes. During the second session, Ilse gives direct feedback on your work and shares insights from other participants’ pieces.
 
Is this only for advanced practitioners?
It’s aimed at regular students and teachers, but the approach is flexible. You decide how far you go based on your tools and confidence.