Looking to bring a touch of natural beauty to your Christmas decorations this year? Why not try making your own wreath? It’s simple, relaxing, and a wonderful way to celebrate the season using materials straight from your garden! This super-easy wreath tutorial is designed to inspire creativity and mindfulness.
I’m a classically trained artist, and as a lover of all things green, creating Christmas wreaths has become one of my favourite ways to connect with nature during the winter season. Let me walk you through the steps to craft your own festive wreath.
What You’ll Need:
• A florist ring (available from most craft shops)
• Plenty of foliage (mine comes from my garden, but feel free to forage!)
• Secateurs (or kitchen scissors if you prefer)
• Ribbon (for hanging your wreath)
• Florist wire (if adding decorations like baubles or pine cones)
• A flask of tea (or your drink of choice – wreath-making is thirsty work!)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pre-soak the florist ring
Place the ring in a sink of water until it’s fully soaked. This keeps your foliage fresh but also makes the ring heavier – something to keep in mind when hanging it later!
2. Attach the ribbon
Tie your ribbon securely to the top of your ring. Measure how far down you’d like your wreath to hang on your door and cut the ribbon accordingly.
3. Prepare your foliage
Cut the foliage into small, manageable branches. Start by inserting the branches into the foam on the outer ring, working your way around.
4. Fill the inner ring
Move to the inner circle of the ring, adding smaller branches for a full, balanced look.
5. Time for a tea break!
Wreath-making is a mindful, leisurely activity – reward yourself with a warm sip before continuing.
6. Fill in the gaps
Work foliage into the space between the inner and outer rings until your wreath looks lush and even.
7. Add decorations (optional)
If you’d like to personalize your wreath, attach baubles, pine cones, or other embellishments using florist wire.
8. Hang and admire
Place your wreath on your front door, step back, and take a moment to appreciate your creation.
Why I Love This Tradition
For me, wreath-making is more than just a Christmas craft; it’s a moment of mindfulness. As someone who has been painting local landscapes for over 30 years, the shades and textures of green hold a special place in my heart. Christmas is a time when I can explore these natural tones in an entirely different way, transforming foliage from my garden (and sometimes my friends’ gardens!) into decorations that bring warmth and life to my home. Check out my love of all things green here: https://worcesterartist.co.uk/collections/landscapes
Decorating for Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By using greenery from nature, you can create something truly unique, personal, and beautiful. Plus, it’s a great way to embrace sustainability during the holidays.
A Little About Me
I’m a classically trained artist based in Worcester, Worcestershire, and I’m honoured to have won the 2024 Women Who Create award. My passion lies in capturing the landscapes around me through traditional oil and acrylic techniques, but at Christmas, my focus shifts to the vibrant greens of winter foliage.
If you try this wreath tutorial, I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and tag me on my socials – let’s celebrate the joy of handmade, garden-inspired Christmas decor.
Happy wreath-making, and Merry Christmas!