Okay I’m the first to admit, I’ve never taken a Wreath making class or any arrangement class for that matter. I’ve always been one of those girls that think ‘Hey, I can do that!’ And wreath making has been no different. I like to learn as I go and learn from any mistakes ive made, but after year 2 of making my own wreaths.. I’m starting to get the hang of it, and wanted to give you guys the confidence and easy steps to create one of your own!
As you all know I like to keep my winter decor simple, classic and long lasting. This year I decided I wanted to make a big wreath for our Barn to bring some Christmas Cheer to it as well! So I’m going to share with you guys my step by step and my materials used!
First off, you need to decided your wreath size & the ‘look’ you want to go for! For me, I wanted it full of greens but all different textures. So I gathered a large wreath ring – you can find these easily at your local Craft Store or Michaels – and my greens of spruce, cedar & pine. Your also going to need some really good wire! I like using a dark green wire, I feel like it blends in best. I got mine from Michaels as well! And of course, a good pair of snips.
I like to build my wreathe using layers of my materials. That way I can make everything as even and full as possible. I like to cut a bunch of wire snips to have ready to just grab so I don’t need both hands to cut and wrap! So lets get started!
1. Lay your materials out and cut your branches into smaller pieces so they are easier to handle. You may need to cut and trim as you go!
2. Start your first layer. *Its important to fasten your greens all in the same direction – you dont want to know where you began and ended your wreath!* I like to use spruce as its the material with the most amount of coverage, a perfect background. Use your wire to fasten your spruce clippings working back and forth between the middle wire and the outer wire so you can maximize your coverage.
3. Once you are happy with your first layer, switch up your greens and bring in texture. Complete another full layer trying to fill any ‘gaps’ from the first layer as you go.
4. Now take a step back and look at your wreath – and start filling in any gaps as you go. It’s also a good idea to attempt to hang your wreath to see if there is any loose snips that need to be wired back and fastened. You want to think about all different kinds of weather your wreath might need to stand up to during the winter – so make sure everything is secured!
5. Once you are satisfied with the fullness and textures of your wreath, now time to hang! You can use your wire to do this! Take a long piece of wire, fold in half, and twist the top half of the fold into a loop (I use my finger as a sizer for the loop hole) and then fasten that to the back of your wreathe!
So I hope this inspires you to get those clippers and your warm outdoor gear on and get to trimming some trees to make your very own DIY Winter Wreath! It sure does bring me joy every time I round the corner to the barn and I see that wreath hanging there! Happy weekend friends & happy DIY’ing!!
Talk soon,
Sam xx
