Creating Beautiful Christmas Wreaths by DeAnna Hambly
Traditionally, the hanging of the Christmas wreath on the front door is one of the first events signifying the Christmas season. Many people also hang wreaths on the outside windows of their home or over a fireplace. Readymade wreaths can be purchased at almost any retail store, but before you purchase yours, consider creating your own wreath with simple items found around your home and from your garden. Making homemade Christmas wreaths is an inexpensive activity that takes very little time and effort. It’s also a great way to bring the entire family together for a fun and memorable activity.
Probably the most common type of wreath is the classic circular or ring type-decorated with flowers, ribbons, and other materials. One advantage of making a homemade wreath is that you can vary the shape to suit your own personal taste. The variety of ways to create wreaths are versatile and endless. To begin, pick a theme; country, classic, or formal, and then gather the necessary items to craft your wreath.
Many simple garden items can be used to create homemade wreaths. For instance, seed pods, from a sweet gum tree (glued together), or dry twisted grape vines can be used to form the ring. The rings can be decorated as they are for a more natural look, or they can be spray painted, glittered, or wrapped with ribbon to give them a more formal appearance.
You can also use evergreen, euonymus, and holy berry leaves. Things such as pinecones and pomegranates can also be used to decorate your wreath. Almost any plant leaves, flowers, or fruits from your garden can be used, however, their use may be limited if you have allergies. If you have pets, be sure to check with your Veterinarian before using some types of garden materials. For a fresh smelling wreath, try snipping branches from your live Christmas tree to add to your wreath. The wreath will compliment your live tree, and you’ll enjoy the wreath’s holiday fragrance.
Other items you’ll need to craft your homemade Christmas wreath are scissors, glue, a glue gun and glue sticks, spray paint, glitter, newspaper, and ribbon. Customize your wreath by adding Christmas ornaments or family souvenirs to them.
Creating homemade Christmas wreaths is an inexpensive and fun activity the whole family will enjoy. For a fun get together with your friends, consider inviting your them over during the holidays for a wreath decorating party. Each person or family supplies their own decorating items and the host or hostess supplies the base for the wreaths. Serve refreshments, and consider giving an inexpensive prize, such as a dated Christmas ornament, to the person, couple or family with the “best” crafted wreath. And don’t forget, wreaths also make great gifts as well.
You’ll find more detailed information on how to make a Christmas wreath by visiting your local craft store or the Internet. For gardening information visit the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office at 2217 Washington Street in downtown Greenville, Texas.