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I made miniature wreath ornaments over 27 years ago and remember to this day how much fun I had with several girlfriends one evening. We were all single and this was probably our first holiday craft project. I don’t have any ornaments left or I would share a photo but they really are beautiful, smell wonderful, and if you have an ounce of creative talent, you will be able to do this.
Supplies Needed:
- Styrofoam sheets will form the wreath shape—1/4″ to 1/2″ is plenty thick and you could go even smaller. I have been lucky to find it in packaging and you may check with a few stores so you don’t have to buy. You may improvise and find something that suits you better. (For all I know, the craft store may even carry the miniature wreaths now – if so, this will cut out a step. Check your local store.)
- 2 round glasses (one larger than the other) to cut out round shape that forms your wreath. Cut the big one first and then smaller one. I prefer about 3 1/2 inch size but any size will do. You may decide to just make one big wreath instead of a lot of small ones.
- Whole Mixed Pickling Spices (at least a couple of large tins to get you started). I believe McCormick’s has some pretty, colorful flakes and seeds in theirs.
- Green Florist Tape
- Elmer’s Glue
- Red Velvet Ribbon 1/4-1/2″ is good for wrapping around ring.
- Wire ribbon to make small bow for top of wreath or you may use the left over red velvet ribbon.
- Craft Wire (usually comes on a spool)—to assist in making bow.
- Glue Gun
Instructions:
If you opt for the styrofoam, you will need to cut out your wreath shape. It will look like a donut but with a bigger hole in the middle.
- Wrap the florist tape around the styrofoam to cover white completely.
- Cut and bend a piece of wire to make the hanger for back of wreath. You can hot glue this or just wrap the wire until you get a loop around the wreath. The wire will be hidden later.
- Next wrap red velvet ribbon to cover florist tape – hot glue to keep in place. Now you should have a pretty but plain red wreath.
Pour the pickling spices in a pie tin or pan…
Generously rub Elmer’s glue on the front of the wreath and press into the pickling spices. You will actually be covering the red ribbon on the front side only with the glue. The back side and the sides of the wreath will be just the red ribbon. Make sure the spices are providing good coverage. Let dry. Shake off loose spices and fill in gaps.
While it is drying, make very small bows (in proportion to your wreath) and use the wire to hold together. You may use the glue gun to attach bow to the top front of wreath and your hanger loop should be resting behind it on the back side of ornament. (Of course, you can buy small bows if you are not up to making them but there is nothing prettier than a hand made bow.)
So sorry I don’t have a picture of the completed project but wanted to share anyway.
Mix things up a bit too! Change out your ribbon colors. Personally, I like a red velvet bow to match the red velvet wrapped around the wreath.
This is a great project if you enjoy crafts and a great activity to share with your children.
Originally published on 12/10/09
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