create your own christmas wreath
This week, Plas Weunydd team member Mel has stepped into the role of chief elf and has guided the team in creating some gorgeous wreaths for our Llechwedd Glamping tents for the festive period. Using foraged greenery, DIY dried orange slices and some wire, these eco-friendly wreaths are as easy to make as they are festive! The wreaths turned out so well we decided we needed to share Mel’s top tips with the world.
Mel’s Guide to Festive Wreath Making
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make an amazing wreath. You can use whatever you have to hand to create something unique. Whilst we used a large circular oasis wreath base for the one highlighted here, you could use an old embroidery ring, some flexible branches tied in a circle or even reshape an old metal coat hanger to use as a base. It doesn’t even need to be circular; an old photo frame would work very well.
We collected a variety of foliage from around the site here at Plas Weunydd, including pine, fir, holly, ivy, and laurel but you could use whatever evergreen foliage you have from the garden, or what you can collect on walks. If you are not using an oasis base, use twine, pretty ribbon, or wire to secure and tie your foliage and accents to your base.
Our traditional accents like pinecones, red berries are relatively easy to collect, and we dehydrated our own orange slices which takes a bit of time but is much more cost effective.
If you want to create a wreath, here are my top five tips:
Get creative.
Traditional is lovely, but if you love books (and your wreath will be sheltered) you could use old book pages to create unusual accent pieces. Large flower heads and seed pods can look beautiful, or maybe you have some spare baubles or fabric lying around. Use what you already have to create a unique and personal wreath.
2. Soak your foliage.
Try to collect your foliage about 2-3 days before you make your wreath, so it is as fresh as possible. Soaking your foliage for 1-2 days by fully submerging it in water will really help it to last longer. Cut your foliage to size. We suggest between 7 and 15cm (4 to 6 inches) but this will also depend on the size of your wreath.
3. Prepare in advance.
Before assembling your wreath, get everything you need within easy reach. Cut pieces of twine, string, or wire so they are ready to use. Organise your foliage and prepare any accent pieces in advance. This way you won’t need to stop and start the assembly.
4. Clock face assembly
Think of a clock face when beginning to assemble your wreath. Start on the outer edge and place foliage from 12 o clock, 1 o clock and so on around your imaginary clock. Then do the same on the inner edge. Then fill the space between the edges with foliage. Leave your accent pieces until last to ensure they do not disappear into the foliage.
5. Trust yourself
Take your time, have fun and you will create something beautiful and unique to enjoy over the festive period.
Share your tips and ideas with us, and we would love to see your finished wreaths.