As the festive season approaches, there’s no better way to bring the spirit of Christmas to your home than with a handmade wreath. Not only does it add a personal touch to your décor, but it’s also a fun and creative activity to enjoy. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to create your own Christmas wreath, complete with decoration ideas and tips on how to display it proudly on your door.
Gathering Your Materials
Firstly, gather all the materials you’ll need. This includes a wreath base (such as a wire frame or a straw form), floral wire, a wire cutter, and greenery like evergreen boughs. For decorations, consider pine cones, holly, mistletoe, dried fruit (dried orange slices look and smell amazing!), baubles, glitter, fake snow, and ribbons. Don’t forget the tools for hanging your wreath, like command strip hangers or over-the-door hangers.
Choosing a Colour Scheme
Selecting a colour scheme can set the tone for your wreath. Traditional schemes include reds and greens, while a more modern approach might involve metallics like gold and silver. You could also opt for a monochromatic look or a pastel palette. Choose a scheme that complements your home and personal style.
Constructing the Base
Preparing Your Greenery: Gather your evergreen boughs – fir, pine, and spruce are popular choices for their longevity and scent. Before attaching them to the base, trim the stems to a uniform length for a neater appearance.
Attaching the Greenery:
- Begin at one point on the frame and lay a bunch of greenery along the wreath base.
- Secure the stems to the frame using floral wire. Wrap the wire around the base and the stems several times to ensure they are firmly attached.
- Continue this process, layering each new bunch of greenery so that it covers the stems of the previous bunch. This technique creates a full, lush look and hides the mechanics of the wire and frame.
Creating a Uniform Shape: As you work your way around the wreath, regularly step back to check the shape. Ensure that the greenery is evenly distributed to avoid a lopsided wreath. Trim any excess branches that disrupt the circular form.
Reinforcing the Structure: If your wreath will hold heavy decorations like large pinecones or ornaments, reinforce areas of the base with additional wire for extra support.
Finishing the Base: Once you’ve covered the entire frame with greenery, tuck in the ends of the last bunch under the first one to create a seamless look. Secure any loose ends with wire.
By following these steps, you’ll have a strong and attractive base ready for the next stage of decoration. Remember, the base sets the tone for your entire wreath, so taking the time to construct it carefully will pay off in the final result.
Adding Decorations
Now comes the fun part – decorating! Decorating your Christmas wreath is where your creativity can truly shine. Here’s some tips to help you transform your greenery base into a festive masterpiece:
Selecting Your Decorations: Choose a variety of decorations that complement your chosen colour scheme and theme. Consider traditional items like pinecones, holly berries and mistletoe, or more contemporary elements like baubles, dried fruit, and ribbons. For a touch of glamour, you might include glittery ornaments or even strings of small LED lights.
Arranging Your Decorations: Before attaching anything, lay out your decorations on the wreath to get a sense of balance and symmetry. This step is crucial for visualizing the final look and ensuring that your wreath doesn’t become overcrowded or unbalanced.
Securing Decorations:
Pine Cones and Larger Items: Use floral wire to attach larger items like pine cones. Wrap the wire around the base of the cone and then around the wreath, twisting to secure. Tuck the ends of the wire into the wreath to hide them.
Holly, Mistletoe, and Similar Items: Smaller items can be inserted directly into the greenery if your base is straw or grapevine. For wire frames, use small pieces of wire to attach them.
Baubles and Ornaments: These can be wired in, or you can use their existing string hangers to tie them to the wreath. Make sure they’re firmly attached to withstand windy outdoor conditions if the wreath will be hung on an exterior door.
Adding Ribbons and Bows: Ribbons can add a beautiful finishing touch. You might choose to weave a ribbon through the greenery or add a large bow as a focal point. To attach a bow, tie it securely with wire or ribbon itself.
Applying Finishing Touches:
Glitter and Fake Snow: If you’re using glitter or fake snow, spray it lightly over the wreath for a magical, wintry effect.
Lighting: If you decide to add lights, weave a string of battery-operated LED lights through the wreath. Ensure the battery pack is accessible but hidden within the greenery.
Evaluating Your Work: Step back and look at your wreath from a distance. This perspective allows you to spot any gaps or asymmetries. Adjust as necessary until you’re satisfied with the overall appearance.
Final Adjustments: Once you’re happy with the decoration placement, make any final adjustments to ensure that everything is securely attached. This step is especially important if the wreath will be hung outdoors, where it will be exposed to the elements.
Hanging Your Wreath
When it’s time to display your wreath, consider the best method for your door. Over-the-door hangers are a great, non-invasive option. Alternatively, command strip hangers offer a damage-free solution, ideal for renters or those who prefer not to use nails. Position your wreath at eye level for the best visual impact.
Maintaining Your Wreath
To ensure your wreath stays fresh and vibrant throughout the season, occasionally spritz it with water if it’s made with real greenery. Keep it away from direct heat sources and intense sunlight to prevent fading and drying out.
Creating your own Christmas wreath is not only a rewarding project, but it also adds a unique and personal touch to your festive decorations. Whether you opt for a traditional look or something more contemporary, your handmade wreath is sure to be a talking point among guests.
