How to Make a Festive Wreath with Foraged Materials from the Garden
Introduction
As the weather gets colder, we spend more time indoors. Why not make a festive wreath to decorate your front door? It’s a fun and easy way to get into the holiday spirit. Plus, it’s a great way to use up some of the bounty from your garden.
Materials
- Circular willow wreath base
- Secateurs
- Green jute twine
- Foraged greenery, such as bay, eucalyptus, ivy, and conifers
- Seed heads, such as clematis, buddleia, nigella, thistles, grasses, and more
- Other decorative materials, such as pine cones, dried flowers, etc.
- Stems of twisted willow
- Ribbon
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
Gather your materials in front of you. Place your greenery in piles according to type and set aside your decorations to add on later. Tie your jute twine onto your wreath securely, using a double knot, but don’t cut it.
Step 2: Make Small Bunches of Sprigs
Clip your branches of foliage into shorter sprigs, 10-15cm long. Make a small bunch of sprigs by layering one on top of the next, using at least two or more different types of leaves. The more sprigs you add, the fuller the wreath will look.
Step 3: Add Foliage to the Base
Lay your bunch of foliage onto your willow base, with the top end pointing outwards. Wrap the twine around the stems and base three times, then pull tight. Repeat the process, making another bunch of foliage and placing it overlapping your first. Wrap the twine around the stems and base three times, as before.
Step 4: Continue Adding Foliage
Continue adding more bunches right around the willow ring. When you get back to the start, lift up the top of the first bunch and secure the final one beneath it. Cut the twine and tie the end to the base with a knot. Add a loop of ribbon to the top of your wreath.
Step 5: Decorate Your Wreath
Next, trim the stems of your seed heads and dried flowers to 15cm. Insert each piece into your greenery, evenly around the wreath. If adding pine cones, keep them secure by weaving twine around the base then tie onto the willow ring.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Complete your wreath by adding decorations foraged from your garden. Hang your wreath up to make sure your decorations are evenly distributed and fill any gaps. Trim off any excess greenery if necessary to finish.
Tips
- Use a variety of greenery to create a more interesting wreath.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different decorations.
- If you’re using fresh greenery, mist it with water to keep it fresh.
- Hang your wreath in a protected area to prevent it from being damaged by the elements.
Conclusion
Making a festive wreath is a fun and easy way to get into the holiday spirit. With a little creativity and some foraged materials from your garden, you can create a beautiful and unique wreath that will add a touch of cheer to your home.
