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Grape Vine Wreaths
I like using a grapevine wreath for its natural beauty, but because of its earthy tone I balance it by adding small whimsical greens. To keep the earthy feeling, I like to add small white berry twigs, and cotton springs. To enhance the look, add a set of large bells or hang (from the center of the wreath) an antique cow bell. Adorn with your favorite color ribbon.
Make Your Own Wreath Material Needed
Floral wire - Wire cutters - A wire wreath form - 2-4 assorted greens Ribbon (optional) - Twigs and sprigs for accents
The Hungarian Breadboard
I love the history, and shape, that antique wood bread board’s offer. I found this one at an antique faire and used it on a kitchen wall, along with other various shapes and sizes of breadboards as a wall collage. You see this in the French countryside homes, combining function with art. When the bread board is taken off the wall, it can be used as a base to create beautiful cheese trays. After using the tray, wash it and hang it back on the wall as art. I decided to use this large one as the base for my front door holiday swag. Lay large lighter fern (like evergreen pieces) down, then a second and third layer of smaller whimsical evergreens. I like using the branches of the Deodar Cedar, because of the whimsical dark green character it holds. Next, weave in your berries or colored foliage. Then, tie the ends together with green floral wire (or a rubber band) and secure to the handle of the breadboard. Grab your favorite ribbon, with a wired edge, and make a bow around the handle to camouflage the wire…then hang onto the door or wall. I often tie long chimes on the handle, or jingle bells.
Step 1: Cut all your fresh greens and sprigs to various lengths, layout for easy access. Pre-cut strips (medium and long) of your floral wire.
Antlers
In recent years, antlers have become popular. I have incorporated them (in their natural color) into table centerpieces during the holidays. I have even seen them painted gold and silver. I think the antlers pair nicely with the traditional evergreen wreath. This wreath was created with a store purchased faux wreath. We weaved in a few fresh greens to add texture, added pinecones and antlers, then secured all with floral wire.
Boxwood
Boxwood is beautiful in its fresh state, as well as in its dry form. The boxwood has a little more traditional look, and those who are allergic (or do not like the traditional evergreens) can incorporate the boxwood wreath into their holiday décor easily. On this wreath, I wanted a little more texture. I started with a base of grape vine, then layered dry boxwood greens, and fresh green boxwood. Next, I added a red and green variegated foliage—for a little color. This would look unique if you weaved in some grape vine ribbon (this can be found on rolls at your local craft store, in the floral making department).
Step 1: Lay wire wreath form wide side down- start layering in the
first layer of greens, as you lay them flat, secure with floral wire. Continue this until the entire wreath form is covered. Repeat with weaving in second, and third layers of greens. Secure each layer as you go along. Last, layer in berry twigs and sprigs, pine cones, colored foliage, and bells—securing with floral wire.
Magnolia
Magnolia is the perfect base for a wreath or a table runner. For individuals who may be allergic or simply not a fan of evergreen for holiday creations, you can find Magnolia fresh in local floral shops, as well as dried. They come with just the leaves or with the large white flowers. Both options are beautiful, and ideal for the holidays. I opted for the dried… non-flowered base, because I wanted to add some fresh sprigs of green that were whimsical into the wreath along with a splash of red berries. Pictured on cover.
Wreath & Swag Tips
Think outside the box for incorporating a base. Anything will work—flat back basket, chicken wire cones, old window frames, shutters, vintage snow shows—really, the ideas are endless.
Tips: Always use at least two greens, with different textures and color. When laying the greens together, make sure they all go in the same direction (so they lay flat). Otherwise, you will end up with a wild looking wreath. Layer in enough greens to cover the entire wreath form and create fullness. Weave in the various materials— rather than just layering them, you want it to look natural. Soak greens overnight in a bucket, prior to starting your project… to ensure longevity.
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