One of my favorite Christmas traditions is making an evergreen wreath to hang on the chimney of our house. Since the chimney is tall and quite large, the wreath must also be relatively large.
I begin by covering my table with a protective cloth and then gather my supplies. When I first started this tradition, I worked outdoors, but since it takes a few hours to complete, I would freeze, so I now do everything indoors. This means more to clean up, but I’m warm and can listen to music as I work.
I use a strong wooden form that is 4 feet in diameter. Mike made this from plywood and he spaced holes every 8 inches or so to keep the wire from sliding. We have a heavy duty chain attached for hanging – the finished wreath is quite heavy.
Other supplies include work gloves, hand clippers, wire, beads, ribbon, and of course, an abundant supply of greens which are cut into approximately 2 foot pieces.
The last item needed is your favorite Christmas music to play while you work.
Now you’re ready to begin. First, gather a large handful of greens. I use white pine, hemlock and branches from other evergreen shrubs growing in our yard.
Tightly attach these to the base with wire. Gather another bundle of greens and place it so that it overlaps the first bunch and covers the stems. Make sure that the stems on both bunches face the same direction.
Continue in this manner until you have worked your way around the entire form. The last few bundles will have to be tucked under the first one. You are now ready to add your finishing touches – beads and ribbons. Your completed wreath is ready to hang!
More Great Christmas Posts:
What Homesteader Chicks Want for Christmas
Ten Easy Ways to Turn a Canning Jar into a Christmas Present
Christmas Ornaments From Aluminum Cans
