DIY A Festive Alternative To A Typical Holiday Wreath Using A Few Simple Items

In the often cold and dark nights of the holiday season, trudging through the snow up to the door of a friend or loved one to find a holiday wreath hanging there brings such a sense of warmth and comfort, almost as if to say, "Come in and warm yourself." In fact, when Christians adopted the tradition of the wreath, it was in part to use up boughs trimmed from the tree — but it was also symbolic of the eternity of spirit. It stands to reason, then, that making our own holiday wreaths has become a tradition as an enduring symbol of friendship, welcome, and the eternal generosity of the holiday season.

While traditional, classic green wreaths abound this time of year, there is something delightfully whimsical about the idea of going rogue and crafting a playful alternative to welcome your guests into your home. The simplicity of this DIY creates the perfect foundation for you to get as creative as your festive-sparked heart desires. 

All you'll need is a wreath frame and some wide ribbon (about the same width as your wreath frame). Several ribbon varieties will give you additional options, but they aren't necessary. A hot glue gun will also come in handy, though you could certainly create some versions with just a bit of crafting or floral wire. Before you cover your kitchen table with supplies, though, take a few minutes to plan your wreath.

Basic ribbon-wreath options are quick and easy and require very few materials. In the same spirit as a festive candy cane centerpiece, create a candy cane wreath with red (or even red-and-white-striped) ribbon and a lot of chunky white yarn. Glue the edge of the ribbon to the frame, and lay it out along the flat frame face. Cover the glued end by wrapping your fuzzy yarn over it. Then fold the ribbon backwards over the yarn, and continue wrapping your yarn directly onto the wire frame. After you have a couple of inches of yarn on the frame, unfold your ribbon, laying it across the top of the yarn, and then switch back to wrapping your yarn over the ribbon for a few more inches. Repeat the process until you get to the end, and finish with a festive bow.

You could also use the same basic materials to create a rustic burlap wreath (though a wired ribbon would work too). This time, you'll weave the burlap through the wire frame, ballooning it out on each side. Add festive details, like a buffalo check bow or sprigs of holly, for a little holiday flair. If the Grinch motif is more your style, simply swap out the burlap for Grinch-green ribbon. Add a little Santa hat on one side, and you've got a Grinch wreath.

For some more textural options, bust out your hot glue gun and a wreath form — this Perfect Order floral foam ring is just under $10 on Amazon. Then gather up your collection of pine cones or Christmas ornament balls and cover the form. It's just that easy to create a whimsical and festive Christmas wreath for your front porch.