One of my favourite things to do in the Christmas season is make a homemade wreath! I love making a wreath that reflects my area through local foliage foraged from the garden, surrounding parks and reserves.
Things you will need
Secateurs
Floral wire
Wire cutters
String
Ribbon
Wreath base
For this you can use fresh vine woven into a wreath shape or purchase one from a craft store
Foliage to form your wreath
Prior to assembling your wreath and collecting foliage, take cuttings of different branches to test out their length for freshness. This will help in making the most of your beautiful wreath.
Making a wreath base with fresh vine
Forage through your local parks, reserves or even a forest for some fresh vine!
Start by making a circle with your vine to determine the size you would like to make. Hook your end piece under the circle as if you were tying a knot to secure your shape.
Wrap the vine around your circle to make a sturdy base.
To finish off the wreath base, poke the end of the vine into a small gap to hold it all together.
Assembling your wreath
Secure the end of your floral wire to the wreath base.
To ensure an even coverage of foliage and a round shape, organise your foliage into bunches of similar size and shape.
Lay the first bunch down in line with your wreath. Wrap your wire around once or twice to secure. Ensure to wrap the wire around tightly. As the foliage dries this will ensure it stays in place and does not fall out.
Layer with the second bunch facing inwards on a 45 degree angle, secure with wire and then layer with the third bunch facing outwards at a 45 degree angle.
Continue this three step process moving around your wreath. This will ensure an even coverage with a nice round shape.
Finishing your wreath
When you have almost completed your wreath with foliage, leave a small space for ribbon.
Before tying the ribbon, flip your wreath over and cut off any long stems. This is also a good time to add a small piece of string at the top of your wreath so it can be hung. You may also want to trim any pieces that are too long or overhanging in the centre.
To finish, tie your beautiful ribbon in the small gap.
Display on a feature wall, front door or a location where everyone can enjoy!
