Creating Lasting Fall Wreaths: The Art of Using Real Leaves and Branches

Have you enjoyed crafting fall wreaths that feature natural leaves and branches? Many have a soft spot for traditional methods of creating these decorative arrangements, and with a bit of knowledge and care, the results can be truly rewarding. In this article, we explore the process of making homemade fall wreaths using real leaves and branches, focusing on the steps to ensure they stay fresh for weeks on end.

Materials and Tools: Essential for Your Wreath Making Adventure

Building a fall wreath requires a few essential tools and materials that can be sourced from local hardware stores or craft supply shops. Among the items you'll need are:

Metal Coat Hangers or Wire: These serve as the base structure of your wreath. Bend the hanger or wire into a circular frame to create the shape you desire. Pine Branches: These are great for creating a natural green backdrop for your wreath. Holly Branches: Known for their glossy leaves and decorative berries, holly adds a festive touch to your wreath. Grape Wisteria or Other Thick Vines: For creating a bare wreath design. Wire Cutters: For trimming and shaping your branches and metal wires. Brown Paper or Burlap: A material that can be used to bind and cover the wreath for a rustic look. Rubber Bands or Metal Ties: Essential for tying the branches to the wire frame.

The Craftsmanship: From Cutting to Attaching

Every fall, my family and I would embark on a wreath-making project, passing down a tradition that Dad initiated. The process was both enjoyable and instructive, giving us opportunities to work together and create something beautiful. Here are the detailed steps:

Gathering and Preparing the Branches

Begin by selecting suitable branches from nearby pine trees or the backyard holly tree. One morning, we would gather a sufficient amount of branches to ensure we had enough material. To prepare these branches, a large washtub was filled with soapy water, and the harvested branches were placed inside to clean them and make them more flexible.

Creating the Frame

While the branches soaked, we would work on the frame. The frame can be made using old metal coat hangers with their built-in hooks, or 16 gauge wire obtained from hardware stores. Depending on the size and complexity of the wreath, this process could be completed within a few hours or take an entire day.

Attaching the Branches

After the branches were soaked and the frame was prepared, it was time to attach the branches to the frame. We used metal ties, similar to those found on a loaf of bread, which were thicker and more durable. These ties were wrapped around the branches and the wire frame multiple times to ensure a secure hold. The loops were tightened to keep everything in place, and the process was repeated until the wreath was fully covered.

Wreath Care: Keeping Your Craft Green

A properly crafted fall wreath can stay green for several weeks, especially in cooler weather. However, daily misting, especially if there hasn't been rain, is essential to maintain their freshness. Regular misting helps to hydrate the branches, keeping them vibrant and green.

Alternative Designs: Bare Wreaths

For a different look, one can create bare wreaths using grape wisteria or other thick vines. These designs do not require a wire frame, as the vines themselves provide the necessary structure. Our family has experimented with these designs, and they add a unique touch to our holiday decorations.

Conclusion

Creating fall wreaths with real leaves and branches is a rewarding craft that combines skill with natural beauty. With the right tools and a bit of care, these wreaths can stay fresh for weeks, providing a festive touch to any home. If you decide to embark on this project, remember to wear protective gloves and long sleeves, as holly can be prickly. Yet, the satisfaction of creating something that captures the essence of the fall season is invaluable.