Seven ways to embellish your wreath

The best festive wreath is one that is personal to you.

One of my favourite things about winter is making my Christmas wreath. I spend ages choosing what adornments to add. I do love the classic combination of dried orange slices, holly berries and cinnamon sticks. But sometimes I like to mix it up. If you want some inspiration to make your wreath extra special this season then I’ve got you covered.

Feathers and twigs

Feathers, particularly pheasant feathers, are always a hit at my workshops. They’re just a bit different and come in such a variety of colours. Twigs fit really well with the rustic vibe of feathers, and are a cheap way to introduce more textures into your wreath. You can take a nature walk and collect your own feathers and twigs. You can also find a cruelty free supplier for feathers on Etsy or elsewhere.

Pinecones, berries and nuts

If you want to keep it natural and biodegradable, then pinecones, berries and nuts are the way to go. I’m a bit of a collector when I go out for walks and often come home with pockets full of pinecones and conkers. There’s loads of glorious Glasgow-based walks that are perfect for a winter wander.

Collecting your own nature goodies might not be for you, which is totally fine as loads of craft shops and garden centres will sell an array of these things in the run up to Christmas.

Christmas ornaments and baubles

Baubles and ornaments are a great way to really add a festive touch to your wreath. They’re easy to source as well. My favourite thing to do is borrow a couple from my Christmas tree so I can create a consistent theme throughout my home.

Fruits and vegetables

Dried orange slices are always a good shout, but you can mix it up with dried chillies for a burst of red, or dried apple slices. If you want to really mix it, I’ve seen a couple of wreaths made from brussel sprouts which were spectacular. I even had a go at using carrots in a wreath.

Personalised decorations

If you want to take it a step further with adding baubles, then getting some personalised decorations is perfect. I bought a couple of gold charms with my partner’s and my dog’s initials. Super cheesy, but I love adding these to my festive wreath. Etsy is full of personalised decorations that would work. To make them really stand out you can hang them from the top, so they dangle in the centre of the wreath.

Twinkly lights

I think this can toe the line of being classy or tacky, although I can be a fan of both. I’ve found the micro fairy lights on a really fine wire work really work. They add a beautiful cosy feel to your wreath without it being gaudy.

Dried flowers

If you want to add lots of interest and textures then dried flowers would work so well. You could add them throughout the wreath, or do a wee cluster on just part of the wreath. Dried roses or hydrangea would add a really luxurious touch. Dried statice or bunny tails would add a lovely natural, rustic feel.

Adding dried flowers would mean your wreath couldn’t be hung outside in the Scottish weather, but it would look beautiful inside your home.

Want to make your own festive wreath this year, without the hassle of doing it at home?

We’d love to have you join us at a Rook Botanics workshop.