What makes a door with a holiday wreath so inviting? Traditionally, circles symbolize inclusion, unity, and wholeness, so a wreath is seen as inviting visitors to share fellowship and good cheer with those inside.

Our real estate agents enjoy creating wreaths that display their individual personality and style. Make your own holiday wreath with these DIY tips! 

Gather Your Tools

The style you select will dictate some of the tools you use, but there are a number of supplies that belong in any basic wreath-making kit:

• Wire snips
• Floral tape, wire, and pins
• Straight pins
• Hot glue gun
• Needle-nosed pliers
• Pruning shears
• Scissors
• Rotary cutter
• Cutting mat
• Staple gun
• Hanging hardware (D-rings, picture hooks, etc.)
• Zip ties
• Work gloves

Choose a Frame

For the best results, you should begin with a frame that will support your chosen materials while holding the circular shape. Wireframes are the most popular option, as they're sturdy enough to hold nearly every type of material and versatile enough to accommodate most styles. Styrofoam is a good choice for wrapping with yarn, fabric, and other lightweight materials. Grapevines and straw are natural, eco-friendly options, while embroidery hoops, hula-hoops, and even vintage life preservers can be creative, outside-the-box solutions.

Create Your Design

With the endless variety of available designs, the hardest part may be choosing just one! You may find yourself making extras to use on other doors or to give away as gifts.

Here are some ideas to get you started.

• Of course, greenery is the most classic material for holiday wreaths. Evergreen branches, pine cones, and berries are commonly used elements. Other natural materials to consider include eucalyptus or magnolia leaves, poinsettias, and citrus fruits.
• Double down on the holiday factor with a wreath of ornaments. Use ones you have on hand, or go retro with antique ornaments you find in resale shops and flea markets. You can also opt for a multi-colored or a monochromatic palette. Straw frames work well for this choice.
• An asymmetric wreath provides an unexpected touch for a more modern look. Cover only one-half to two-thirds of the frame with greenery, ornaments, or other materials. Be sure to use a frame that will still look good with part of it exposed.
• While frames provide a convenient structure, some materials lend themselves to a freeform design. For instance, some enterprising designers have created charming wreaths using objects such as cookie cutters, candy canes, and Mason jar lids.
• Take advantage of Michigan's chilly winter weather by filling a bundt pan with water and adding apple slices, cranberries, and pine needles. Freeze well and use a piece of strong ribbon or twine to hang from a sturdy tree branch so it can multi-task as a bird feeder as the ice melts.
• Want a wreath that's both seen and heard? Let a joyous sound ring out by suspending bells or tiny round ornaments in the center of the wreath. 
• Does a wreath even have to be round? Take a new look at some of the seasonal and holiday items you have in the house, and let your imagination run free. One clever designer took a pair of fur-trimmed ice skates and filled them with evergreen sprigs adorned with metallic mini-ornaments.

A holiday wreath is a great way to put your unique stamp on a new home. If you're buying or selling a home in Livingston County, contact us at Griffith Realty.