Christmas Wreaths - New Ideas For an Old Tradition

When we think of wreaths, most of us typicallydress up a special gift.
envision a traditional wreath made of greenery.Size
This is usually accompanied by a bow of someThe location of your wreath will usually determine
sort and possibly pinecones. While these traditionalits size. Wreath sizes can vary greatly; however,
Christmas wreath will always be steadfastmost indoor wreaths range in size from 6 to 48
favorites, there are many other ways toinches. An outdoor wreath used as a focal point
decorate and use wreaths. By taking a freshon a home's exterior might be as large as 72
approach to an old decoration, you can createinches in diameter.
something really unique and special that will be aMaterial
centerpiece in your home for years to come.The material of your wreath will greatly impact its
Here are a few things to consider when youoverall design and appearance. While the options
rethink your idea of wreaths:are endless, below are some ideas to start with:
LocationGreenery: Fresh or artificial
This will likely have the biggest impact on theNatural materials such as pinecones, nuts, wheat,
structure and material of your wreath. Obviouslystraw, grapevines, fresh or dried herbs, fresh or
if the location is outdoors, it must be made ofdried flowers, shells, leaves.
weatherproof materials. Indoor wreaths areManmade materials such as Christmas balls, fabric,
primarily impacted by their location in the home,ribbon, paper or metal.
as their construction and decorations will likelyDecorations
reflect their surroundings.Finally the fun stuff! Your imagination is the limit
How Will It Be Displayed?when it comes to a wreath's decorations. When
Traditionally, wreaths have been hung abovedecorating your wreath, it's important to consider
fireplaces and on front doors. However, the skythe location (for example, an outdoor wreath
really is the limit on where your wreath might go.should have weatherproof decorations), and who
Here are a few different ideas to consider:will be enjoying it. Below are some ideas to help
Window: Facing outside, inside or both by using aget you started.
double-sided wreath hanger, such as ribbon, chain,Living Room: Same color and possibly same
or rope.decorations as your tree.
On a mirror: The size of your mirror will dictateKitchen: Try decorating with cookie cutters,
the size of your wreath.kitchen utensils, herbs, cinnamon sticks, etc.
From a lighted wall sconce: Anywhere in theChildren's Room: Hand made ornaments, toys,
home, even the bathroom!candy canes, etc.
Dining room chair: Small wreaths can really dressHobby related wreaths: Sports team colors or
up the back of a dining chair when tied with brightparaphernalia, sewing or needlecraft implements,
ribbon.antique cars or tractors, gardening tools, etc.
Easel: Prop a large, lighted wreath on an easel inWhatever your choices, remember to have fun
one corner of a room. This works great whenand use your imagination!
you have limited wall space, and can replace aYour finished wreath will be one-of-a-kind, and you
tree in a small area.will want to protect it so that you can use it in
Table: Lay it on a table and put candles or a bowlthe future. Be sure to consider this when you are
of fruit in the center.storing it away by using products that are durable
Lighted hutch: A wreath propped up in a lightedand convenient. There are many wreath storage
hutch or curio cabinet is an unexpected surprisebags and boxes on the market today that will
any time of year!keep your wreaths protected while in storage. By
Tree: Wreaths of different materials can be usedchoosing an appropriate storage container, you'll
to decorate a Christmas tree for an added touchensure that your wreath can be enjoyed for
of elegance or whimsy.years to come.
Packages: Use a small wreath tied to a ribbon to