View full sizeCurls of bark and slices of fruit give a rustic look to this door wreath.Is this the year you're finally going to make your own holiday wreath? Store-bought wreaths do the job -- especially when you're in a hurry, or when you've procrastinated too long -- but nothing beats one you make yourself. In an hour or less, you can make a one-of-a-kind wreath that lasts through the holidays with no more than a change of ribbon. Spritz with gold or silver spray paint for a glitzier look.
1. Gather decorative materials.
Evergreens of any sort, dried flowers (got any lavender or rosemary left?), fresh or dried fruit (pomegranates or little green apples), ribbons and bows (tied or twining), cones, nuts, acorns, chili peppers, or other decorative materials.
2. Gather tools.
Choose from the following: hot-glue gun with extra cartridges, scissors, straight pins, quilting pins, needle and thread, floral wire, braided or other ribbon, and a wreath form (14 inches is a common size) in straw, wire or vine.
3. Cover the form.
Lay the form on a flat surface. Attach plant material with glue gun, pins, floral wire, or needle and thread. Cover the form with materials extending 2 to 3 inches beyond the edge. Trim away any stems into the middle.
4. Add accents.
Between gaps, stick in plant materials, seedpods, cones or any bling or bauble that appeals to you. Wire a bow to the front, if you like.
5. Hang with nail or attach with a wreath hanger.
For metal doors, the magnetized type of hanger works well.
Done.
-- Homes & Gardens staff
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