Currently unavailable due to graduate studies ~ [Endemic Species of Taiwan] Alishan Cherry Blossom | Hairpin | Semi-Shrink

Beneath the cherry blossoms, I bid you farewell, a heart's longing follows each broken branch. After parting, the deepest thoughts entwine, a thousand trees and ten thousand petals drift and hang around the forest. — Tang Dynasty, Yuan Zhen, "Offering a Sprig of Flowers" 【Endemic Species of Taiwan - Alishan Cherry Blossom】 ◆ Scientific Name: Prunus transarisanensis ◆ Distribution: High altitude areas of the island. ◆ Appearance: Flowers grow in clusters of 2-3, with colors ranging from white, off-white, to pink. The flowers are medium to large, with relatively long pedicels. The shape and color of new leaves differ, appearing more rounded and broadly ovate. ◆ Characteristics: According to Taiwanese agricultural research, the genetic diversity within the Alishan cherry blossom species is higher than that of peach, plum, Formosan cherry, and Formosa cherry varieties. 【Scientific Principle】Shrink Plastic ◆ Thermoplastic These plastics have a chain-like or dendritic structure. Their molecules can move freely at high temperatures. Upon heating, their components do not undergo a chemical reaction but soften and deform. Thus, they can be repeatedly heated to soften and melt, solidifying upon cooling. Most single-use plastic food containers and packaging are made from thermoplastic materials, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) used for cling films and fresh-keeping boxes. ◆ Thermosetting Plastic These plastics have a network structure formed through cross-linking reactions. Before shaping into a product, they are heated, undergoing irreversible chemical reactions like vulcanization. Once molded, they cannot change shape even when reheated. Only specific plastic food containers and packaging utilize thermosetting plastics. Common examples include polycarbonate used for water bottles, or polyether sulfones used for high-temperature resistant containers like tableware, medical devices, and electronic components. We utilize the property of shrink plastic as a thermoplastic: it shrinks and thickens when heated. By adjusting the heating time with a heat gun, we shape the petals to be thick at the tips and thin at the edges, and heat them to soften and curve. - - - - - - - - - - - - - 【Product Information】 ◆ Materials: Plastic, copper wire, hairpin (wood, bamboo, etc.) ◆ Dimensions: 18 × 3 × 2 cm 【Customization】 You can choose from the following hairpin styles: ◆ Wooden hairpin: More stable, suitable for updos on its own. ◆ Bamboo hairpin: Aesthetically pleasing. ◆ Metal hairpin: Available in gold and silver, suitable for updos. For longer hair, a wooden hairpin is recommended. ◆ U-shaped hairpin: Available in gold and silver, ideal for decorative use after an updo. ʘ If no special request is made or if customer service is not contacted within three days of placing your order, the item will be made as shown in the product photo. 【Precautions】 ◆ The branches are supported by a copper wire frame and can be gently bent. ◆ This product is made to order. Production time is approximately 7-10 working days (excluding holidays). If you need it urgently, please contact us. ◆ As the product is entirely handmade, there may be slight variations in color and form. ◆ To clean, gently wipe with a thin cotton cloth. ◆ Store in a sturdy box when not in use to prevent the flowers from deforming. ◆ Do not expose to water. ◆ References: Wen, Y. J., Chang, C. Y., & Kao, C. Y. (2008). A Study on the Genetic Diversity of Alishan Cherry Blossom. *Journal of Taiwan Agricultural Research*, *57*(4), 233-242. Plastic Station. (n.d.). *[Plastic Knowledge] Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Plastics*. Plastics Industry Development Center. (n.d.). *Understanding Plastics and Proper Usage—Introduction to Commonly Used Plastic Materials*.