Monday Makes: DIY Festive Wreath from Foraged Materials

Monday Makes: DIY Festive Wreath from Foraged Materials

 This Monday Makes is FAB! How to make a natural foraged wreath from bits you find in your garden or in the forest. These DIY Wreaths bring a gorgeous, handmade touch to your home and are perfect for your front door or as a thoughtful gift for siblings or parents.

These wreathes were made completely out of found materials (apart from a tiny bit of gardening twine!) but you can also pick up a wreath base at garden centres or craft shops if you prefer.

TOP TIP

** I did this the other weekend with a friend and she taught me something amazing! Did you know that the branches from the blackberry bush are often used for weaving, just like willow? For her wreath, she chose long green flexible branches - over 2 meters long. With her leather gloves (you can also use a leather cloth) she rubbed the branches to strip them of their thorns - then she plaited 3 strands together and shaped them into her wreath base!

Materials You’ll Need

  • Base: Flexible twigs or vines like willow or ivy, which you can bend into a circle. You can actually buy long willow branches in Garden centres.
  • Greenery: Foraged evergreen branches (e.g., pine, cedar, holly), ivy, or anything else you fancy.
  • Decorative Touches: Pine cones, berries, acorns, dried orange slices, or small seasonal flowers.
  • Binding Material: Twine, jute string, or wire (preferably something reusable).
  • Optional: Ribbon, dried cinnamon sticks, or any other natural elements you love.
  • Also Tea - to drink while you work!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Create the Wreath Base

  • Gather long, flexible twigs (willow or ivy works well). Start by shaping them into a rough circle, overlapping them as needed to form a sturdy base.
  • Secure the ends with twine or wire, tying in a few spots to keep the circle stable.

2. Add Greenery

  • Take small bundles of evergreen branches, ivy, or any greenery you’ve foraged. Layer them around the base, securing them with twine or wire. Usually you are supposed to go in one direction with these for traditional wreaths, but I like the "whatever goes" way of doing it with foraged wreaths!
  • You can overlap the bundles, so the greenery covers the entire wreath, giving it a full look, or you can choose to make it more minimal, only adding greenery to one section.
  • For a more natural vibe, let some sprigs hang loose or poke out for an organic, wild look.
  • In the first image I've used old ivy branches to create my base. In the second, I used young ivy and created a mini wreath out of just that!

3. Add Decorative Elements

  • Attach pine cones, berries, and other decorative items by either threading twine through them or securing them with wire (get both at your local garden centre). Spread them evenly or cluster them in spots for a focal point.
  • Dried orange slices or cinnamon sticks can add a nice pop of colour and a festive scent. Use twine or even gardening wire to secure them.

4. Final Touches

  • If you want, you can tie a simple ribbon at the top for hanging or to give it a more festive flair.
  • You can also add some delicate dried flowers or additional small details that make the wreath unique to your style.

5. Display Your Creation

  • Hang your wreath on your front door, above your mantel, or anywhere that could use a bit of holiday cheer!

Tips for Foraging

  • Seek permission!
  • Go for a walk with a bag and some secateurs.
  • Be mindful of the environment; only take what you need, leave enough for nature, and never pull anything up by the root. 
  • Only ever take something that is plentiful, and only take a little.
  • Check the ground! It is hedgegrow and pruning season - many forest walks will have everything you need on the ground already cut!
  • Choose hardy materials that will last through the holiday season.
  • Leave no trace!

Again, the basic rules are: take only a small amount, don’t uproot the plant, don’t trespass on private land and leave plenty of berries for wildlife.

 

This wreath is a great way to make your home feel festive while keeping costs down and staying eco-friendly. Each one is unique and made with love, perfect for your holiday decor!



I'd love to see your photos when you are done!!

 

Check out this wreath making workshop I ran a few days ago! I'll be doing them again next year!

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