Don’t let the winter blahs get you down. Do something about it.

There are many floral-related activities we can do indoors while we’re awaiting spring’s arrival.

Try some new kinds of flowers and floral materials that you haven’t used before. Check out some of the new floral containers. There is now a new kind of European vase called the Noming vase. A combination of chalk and an innovative plastic, this sophisticated design is perfect for last-minute arrangements. Affordable, it is disposable.

Check out some of the new floral design books. “Keiko’s Ikebana” by Keiko Kubo was published by Tuttle. Kubo is a certified Ikebana teacher, and has a master of fine arts degree. Like any art form, Ikebana is not static. In this volume, the author offers a new look at this classic art by introducing elements from western floral design. She presents ideas that suit contemporary sensibilities. The author provides in-depth details on the history of Ikebana, the basics, and design principles. There are 20 easy to create projects with step-by-step instructions. The photos are by Erich Schrempp who is known for his fine art illustrations.

Along with fresh and dried flowers, other craft techniques can be used to decorate your home with floral themes. C & T Publishing has released “Window Gardens in Bloom” by Margaret Vant Erve. This features 25 hand-embroidered flower projects that are just breathtaking. There are complete, step-by-step illustrated directions, and a list of materials for creating and displaying these projects. Among the featured flowers are daffodils and germaniums.

Mt. Redoubt Designs has released two delightful floral patterns by renowned artist Letitia Hutchings in time for spring. These easy to make designs will be perfect for flower lovers.

“Garden of Grace” is a beautiful appliqué design. Around 25 inches in diameter, it looks for all the world like a garden stepping stone that comes alive with flower. These dimensional blooms are presented on a gorgeous marbled background with foliage, flower buds, and dragonflies. Like all the Mt. Redoubt patterns, this comes with full-size templates, placement charts, a list of materials, and step-by-step instructions.

“Summer Dreams” is a quick and easy appliqué wall hanging depicting a lily pond with flowers and white swans. Measuring 16 inches by 53 inches, this also features gorgeous dimensional blossoms. The quilt pattern has full-size pattern pieces, placement charts, a chart listing the fabric needed, and complete instructions.

For these two designs, Mt. Redoubt has a Spring Crystal Set of Swarovski crystals. This contains all the colors and individual crystals you need to embellish these quilts and make them works of art.