The Secret Garden, published in 1910 by Frances Hodgson Burnett, is noted as ‘one of the best children’s books of the twentieth century.’ I don’t know if I actually read it as a child, but the idea of a secret garden has stayed with me always. Who doesn’t like a good mystery? Throw in a secret key and a beautiful garden and you’ve got the makings of a rich childhood fantasy.
Earlier this year I discovered a beautiful line of crafting paper by graphic 45 based on Burnett’s book. While I was purchasing my own sheaf of paper in California, Boomdee was doing the same in Edmonton, Canada. I just know they were thinking of us when they designed this nostalgic product line.
Secret Garden
Paper intended for scrapbooks doesn’t usually end up in the garden. For a variety of reasons (well one really) paper and water don’t mix. I decided to buck the trend, however, and figure out a way to combine my love of tiny gardens, secret gardens, crafting paper and children’s lit.
Using a plastic tray and a generous amount of cello-tape, I waterproofed the paper for the background as well as the sign. I purchased a small wooden frame for a dollar at our local craft store and painted it a soothing garden green. Touches of moss and dirt gave it a woodsy touch, as well as the Sedum and petrified wood nearby. A small gravel path leads to the heart-shaped entrance. Stairs (made from leftover tile pieces) sit on small wooden blocks. Just follow the colorful path.
Secret Garden Entrance
Please follow the path
Garden Steps
Please come this way…
Paper design by graphic 45
You’ll be seeing more of this lovely paper in a craft-it-forward project later this year.
Gardening Nirvana 
Oh your Fairy wand was busy today! Absolutely cute as can be! I love that it’s hidden right in your garden. Is it by the front deck? Those little pebbles are fun, I see aqua in there too! I love that you’ve included your little deer and it’s stopping off at a pond on the way to the Secret Garden. Your heart entrance is so creative, is that the wood frame? Thank you so much for linking back to my craft page, xo. I also loved all the links you included. That Album is really something else. I still have bits of this collection left and should try and use it up with some of her clever ideas. I know I’m going to get some Gesso, I like that look and haven’t seen that b4. I saw all kinds of fun things too at the Graphics 45 Blog….some ideas I’ve done (rolled corner, 3 face accordian card, dimensional pearls) and lots of fun new ones. WOW, I have to go back again. I hope Mouse minds his manners and is a kind and gentle visitor to your new Fairy Garden. I’m still looking for the perfect outdoor container so I can get going on that, you’ve inspired me in so many ways. xo Hugs K
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Hee! Me and my Fairy wand, eh? I love that you’ve bestowed that upon me.
Yes, it’s in front of the deck, down the steps and just in front of the wooden bench. You can’t see it from the street, but you can see it from the deck so it does have a secret element to it. I trimmed the tall grasses for the photos, but as they grow back it will be partially hidden again. So fun!
Yes, that Graphic 45 blog is amazing. I could get lost there all day. I’m glad you found something new to try. I must visit again soon when I have more free time.
Mouse? Mind his manners? Well…I’m not holding my breath! He looks so innocent curled up on Mac’s bed but, just like a two year old at nap time. Once they’re up, mayhem continues. But he’s so darn loveable…
Still no luck on the container, eh? I’ve seen some large ones at Michael’s in the past. No luck there? Thanks for all your support xox
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OH YA, Michaels….I might do that too. I’ve been snooping the antique malls, hoping for something vintagey interesting. More tricky when I don’t really know what I’m looking for….LOL. So it’ll be a surprise even to me 😀 Snuggles to all xoK
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What a gorgeous fairy homage to one of my favourite childhood books! The idea of a secret garden is so enchanting – and I LOVE that paper! What a unique and lovely way to use scrap booking paper – in the garden! Wish I could wander down that enticing little stone path and get lost in that Secret Garden for a day!
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I’m so happy to hear it was one of your favorites, too! Thank you for your kind words. This was really a lot of fun.
I used to imagine I was small and could gather with the fairies and sprites of the imaginary world. It seems so carefree, doesn’t it?
Thanks for reading and commenting.
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I have to agree with that quotation – your photos always show that there is always something new and interesting to find in a garden. Very cool!
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Thank you, Will.
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I read The Secret Garden in the 5th grade. It was the first book to completely and totally captivate me. It has an oh so special place in my memory. I love your little secret garden and think I will make one with my 5-year-old daughter. Thanks for sharing such a lovely idea!
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What a great idea! Five year olds are perfect for this sort of thing. My boys are 12 and 15 now so I’m left to my own devices. I hope you’ll share a photo of your own secret garden when its done. Have fun!
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i love the book too and have a copy in my library. I love the thyme and the pebbles very nice job
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Nice! I’m going to have to find a copy for my own, too.
Thanks for commenting. It’s nice to see you here at gardening nirvana.
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You never cease to amaze me! How utterly beautiful 😉
Spashionista (Alicia)
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Awww. That made my day. Thank you, Alicia! Mwaaaaa
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Everything is even tinier than I thought!! It really looks lovely. I hope to get to do this sometime this summer
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It is a lot of fun. Can’t wait to see what you do.
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