The timeless tradition of making and displaying wreaths is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you're decorating your home or giving a thoughtful handmade gift, creating a wreath with natural materials is simple and rewarding. Follow this step-by-step guide to craft your own beautiful wreath using evergreens and hardy winter plants from your backyard.
What You'll Need
- A metal wreath frame (available in various diameters)
- Craft wire
- Pruners
- Gloves (optional for handling pokey greenery)
- Greenery such as cedar, olive leaves, holly berries, or other hardy plants
Step 1: Gather Your Greenery
Choose evergreens and hardy plants that will last throughout the season. Great options include:
- Incense cedar: Provides a classic holiday look
- Holly berries: Add a bright, festive touch
- Olive leaves: Offer a soft texture
- Other suggestions: Mugo pine, nandina, boxwood, blue spruce, eucalyptus, and lavender
Use greenery from your backyard or source cut plants from a local nursery. To ensure the longevity of your wreath, test the foliage by leaving it overnight in the intended environment and checking for wilting the next day. Avoid using foliage that appears wilted. For additional inspiration, check out our Seasonal Plants and Flowers collection.
Step 2: Create Greenery Bundles
Make small hand-sized bundles of greenery by combining different textures and colors for a balanced look. Tie the bundles tightly together with craft wire to keep them secure. Prepare enough bundles to cover your wreath frame completely.
Step 3: Attach Bundles to the Frame
- Attach the first bundle to the wreath frame at the crossbar using craft wire.
- Overlap each new bundle slightly with the previous one to cover the frame and create a lush appearance.
- Continue attaching bundles until the entire frame is covered. Use additional wire to secure any floppy pieces of greenery or fill in sparse areas.
Step 4: Customize Your Wreath
Experiment with different combinations of greenery to create unique designs. For a festive holiday look, try combinations like:
- Mugo pine with mini pinecones and strawberry bush (with small white flowers and red fruit)
- Blue spruce with eucalyptus and lavender for a cool-toned design
- Variegated boxwood and young nandina for a more traditional style
Step 5: Enjoy and Gift Your Wreath
Once completed, your wreath can be displayed on a door, wall, or table as a centerpiece. It also makes a wonderful handmade gift for friends and family. Enjoy the creative process and the beauty of a wreath made with love and natural materials.
Happy Holidays, and Grow Organic for Life!
