One of the most popular holiday decorations are wreaths. There are many stories of how and when the tradition of hanging a wreath on your front door started. Ancient Romans often hung wreaths as a symbol of victory or class status and some say that the tradition started with 16th century German Lutherans who, in an effort to not waste them, wove branches that were pruned from the first Christmas trees into wreaths. Often, homes that could not fit a Christmas tree would hang a wreath instead and the wreaths of Catholics included candles and evolved into the advent wreaths that many Christians use as part of their observance of the holiday season. I believe that regardless of their origin wreaths are a wonderful symbol of good cheer and a perfect way to welcome guests and relatives to your home. While you can purchase a wreath, why not try something different this year and make your own?

While there is no rule that a wreath needs to be in the shape of a circle it is by far the most popular shape as it is a symbol of eternity; no beginning and no end. The base of the wreath should be a strong and flexible material such as young branches from shrubs and trees. Traditional wreaths use evergreens such as holly or pine boughs, but you can also use grapevines or more modern materials such as plastic and wire. If you use natural materials you’ll want to take the thickest pieces and wrap them around one another in a circular shape about 3 to 4 times. Smaller pieces can then be wrapped around this base for added strength. Once this base is finished the fun part of the process begins!

There is really no limit to the materials you can use to decorate your wreath. This is where you can allow your creativity to run wild! Pine cones, holly berries and bows are traditional choices, but why not try recycling decorations from past holidays? Ornaments are just one choice or maybe some Christmas lights which aren’t going to be used this year. How about the bells from a stocking or elf’s hat? You also don’t have to limit yourself to just holiday related materials, I’ve seen wreaths made of herbs such as sage, oregano, and lavender and dried fruits such as orange and lemon slices. While we associate the smell of pine with the holidays I wonder about the fragrance that would emanate from these wreaths! You can attach your decorations by weaving them into the base, gluing them, or for heavier items using wire or fishing line.

Don’t forget, you don’t have to limit your wreath to just an outdoor decoration; having them hanging indoors may allow you to enjoy them more and their fragrance may be just the thing you need to get in the holiday spirit. Finally, if you discover that you really enjoy this activity you can make wreaths to decorate for other holidays such as Thanksgiving or as a way to mark the changes in the seasons. If you make a wreath this holiday why not share it on our Facebook page for all of us to admire!