Evergreen wreaths: Purchase a metal wreath frame at a craft store. Take medium-gauge wire and wrap it several times around one point on the frame. Place a small cluster of greens (4–6 inches in length) on the wire and secure by wrapping the wire several times around the ends of the green and the frame. Do not cut the wire.
Take another cluster of greens and place it 2–3 inches down the frame having it overlap the first cluster. Wrap this with wire as above. Repeat this process until you have finished the frame.
With the last cluster, lift the first cluster of greens and wire it underneath. Then cut the wire. An alternative approach is to complete half the frame with the greens facing one direction and the other half with the greens in the opposite direction. You can then wire pine cones and bows to the arrangement.
For more decorating ideas and year-round floral inspiration, choose from our hand-picked selection of books in the Home-Style section of our online book shop. You can also save on holiday gift purchases by checking out our “Gifts under $50” suggestions at www.nybgshop.org.
Supply list: Floral tape (to conceal unsightly ends and exposed wire), floral wire or medium-gauge wire, scissors, pruners, wire cutters, florist’s foam, floral picks with wire, evergreens, ornamental seed heads, nuts and cones, fruit, and ribbons. All of these items can be found at craft stores, hardware stores, and garden centers.
Removing pine sap: To remove pine sap: use WD-40 on your tools; anything with vegetable oil in it on your hands; and rubbing alcohol or witch hazel on your hands and clothing.
Don't miss Sonia's ideas for holiday decorating with greens and other treasures from your yard and garden.
For more gardening tips visit us online at www.nybg.org. For great garden and garden-inspired product, visit us at www.nybgshop.org.
