How to Make a Christmas Wreath

16 December 2025

Creating your own Christmas wreath is a simple and enjoyable way to bring festive cheer into your home. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a Christmas wreath from scratch, perfect for beginners, craft enthusiasts, and anyone who loves adding a personal touch to their holiday décor.

Whether you’re using locally sourced greenery or flowers from your favourite UK florist, this easy DIY project helps you create something beautiful and unique for the season. Ready to get started? Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own festive wreath.

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how to make a christmas wreath

Table of Contents:

What You’ll Need to Create a Christmas Wreath
Step 1 - Prepare Your Base
Step 2 - Add Moss to the Base
Step 3 - Add a Mini Bouquet of Greenery
Step 4 - Build Up Your Wreath
Step 5 - Add Decorations
Step 6 - Display Your Wreath
The Tradition of Hanging Christmas Wreaths

What You’ll Need to Create a Christmas Wreath

Before you begin, gather all your materials so everything is ready when you start crafting.

Wreath base (wire, foam, or grapevine)
Fresh moss
Florist wire or binding wire
Greenery and foliage (pine, fir, holly, ivy, eucalyptus)
Decorative accents (pinecones, berries, ribbons, dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, small baubles)
Ribbon or twine
Scissors or garden shears
Glue gun (optional)
Spray bottle with water

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Step 1 - Prepare Your Base

You should start by choosing the right base for your wreath. A wire frame is ideal for structure and durability. Foam and grapevine bases work as a great alternative if you prefer a more natural look. It’s important to select the size that suits best for where you’re planning to hang your wreath. Choose smaller for doors and windows, and larger for statement displays.

Once you’ve chosen your base, attach a length of florist wire to the frame to secure it firmly in place. This wire will be used throughout the process to hold the moss, foliage, and decorations as you build your wreath. Make sure the wire is tight but not cutting into the base.

If you’re using a wire frame, you can also wrap it in a little fresh moss or straw at this stage to give your wreath a soft, natural starting layer. This helps the greenery stay in place and adds a fuller look later on.

Step 2 - Add Moss to the Base

Next, take your fresh moss and begin covering the wreath base evenly. Start by placing small handfuls of moss onto the frame, holding each section in place as you wrap florist wire around it to secure it tightly. Continue working your way around the base until it’s covered. Make sure to slightly overlap each section of moss so there are no gaps.

Make sure the moss is packed firmly but not too tightly, it should feel springy and soft to the touch. This layer helps create the wreath’s shape and provides a moist foundation to keep your greenery fresh for longer.

Once the entire frame is covered, give it a gentle press to check for evenness. If there are any thin spots, add a little more moss until you have a full, rounded base ready for your foliage. This will ensure your wreath has a natural base to work with.

Step 3 - Add a Mini Bouquet of Greenery

Now it’s time to start building the shape of your natural Christmas wreath with greenery. Gather a small handful of foliage and create a mini bouquet by holding the stems together in one hand. A mix of pine, holly, eucalyptus, or ivy works beautifully for this kind of project.

Place the bundle onto the moss-covered base at a slight angle, with the stems pointing in the same direction you plan to build around the wreath. Use florist wire to secure the stems firmly in place, wrapping it around the base a few times to hold everything tightly.

Continue making and attaching small bouquets of greenery, overlapping each one so that the stems are hidden and the foliage forms a smooth, natural flow. Vary the textures and shades of green for a full, balanced look for a traditional Christmas wreath.

Step 4 - Build Up Your Wreath

Keep adding your small bundles of greenery all the way around the base until it’s completely covered. Each new bunch should slightly overlap the previous one to hide the stems and create a full, layered look. Work in the same direction around the wreath to maintain a neat, circular flow.

It helps to step back from time to time to check the shape and balance of your DIY Christmas wreath. If you spot any gaps or uneven areas, tuck in extra sprigs of foliage to fill them out. Mixing different textures, like soft pine with holly or eucalyptus, can add depth and variety to your Christmas wreath decoration.

When you’ve completed the circle, gently adjust any loose leaves or stems to give your wreath a polished, professional finish.

Step 5 - Add Decorations

Once your wreath is full of greenery, you can bring it to life with festive decorations. There are a range of accents you can add to reflect the style you’re going for. Pinecones, dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, berries, baubles and ribbons are popular choices for traditional Christmas wreaths.

Before attaching anything, arrange your decorations on the wreath to plan the layout. This helps you find a balanced look before fixing them in place. Once you’re happy with the design, secure each decoration using florist wire or a small dab of glue if needed. Heavier items like pinecones or ornaments may need extra support, so make sure they’re firmly attached.

For a finishing touch, tie a large ribbon or bow to the top or bottom of your Christmas wreath. Choose colours that complement your décor, classic red and gold, or silver and green for something more elegant.

Step 6 - Display Your Wreath

With your wreath beautifully decorated, it’s time to show it off. Most people choose to hang their Christmas wreath on the front door, but it can also make a lovely feature above a fireplace, in a hallway, or on an interior wall.

When hanging your wreath, make sure it’s secure and that your door or wall surface won’t be damaged.

Here are a few simple, reliable options:

Ribbon or Twine: Thread a length of strong ribbon or natural twine through the top of your wreath and tie it into a loop. Hang it from an existing nail, hook, or door knocker for a traditional look.
Over-the-Door Wreath Hanger: A popular and fuss-free option that hooks over the top of your door. It holds your wreath securely without the need for nails or screws.
Adhesive Hooks: Ideal if you don’t want to make holes. Choose a strong, outdoor-rated adhesive hook suitable for painted or glass surfaces.
Suction Hooks (for glass doors or windows): Great for interior displays or porch doors — just make sure the surface is clean before attaching.

Once your wreath is in place, step back and enjoy your handiwork. To help it stay fresh throughout the festive season, mist the greenery lightly with water every few days and keep it away from direct heat.

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The Tradition of Hanging Christmas Wreaths

Wreaths have long been a symbol of warmth, welcome, and celebration during the festive season. While they are now a familiar part of modern Christmas décor, the tradition of hanging them dates back hundreds of years and carries a rich meaning that many people still value today.

The Meaning Behind Christmas Wreaths

The circular shape of a wreath represents eternity and unity, with no beginning or end. It is a fitting symbol for the everlasting spirit of Christmas. The materials used also hold traditional meanings:

Evergreen foliage represents eternal life and renewal during winter.
Holly and ivy symbolise hope and faith, often used in early Christian customs.
Ribbons and decorations reflect joy, love, and celebration.

Today, hanging a wreath is a way to welcome friends and family, while bringing a touch of nature and festive warmth to the home.

A Brief History of Wreath-Making in the UK

The custom of wreath-making in the UK has developed over centuries of seasonal celebration.

Ancient Roots: Early wreaths were crafted from natural branches and greenery to mark the passing of the seasons and the cycle of life.
Victorian Influence: Wreaths became a popular Christmas tradition in the 19th century, when families began decorating them with ribbons, dried fruits, and candles as symbols of hope and abundance.
Modern Tradition: Today, people across the UK continue to make or buy wreaths each year, often turning it into a creative family activity or choosing bespoke designs from local florists.

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Key Takeaways for Making a Christmas Wreath

Making your own Christmas wreath is a fun, creative way to add a personal touch to your festive décor.
Start with a sturdy base such as wire, foam, or grapevine to give your wreath structure and shape.
Use fresh moss to help the greenery stay in place and keep it hydrated throughout the season.
Combine a variety of foliage like pine, holly, ivy, and eucalyptus for texture, colour, and fragrance.
Build up the wreath gradually with small bundles of greenery, overlapping each one for a full, natural look.
Add festive decorations such as pinecones, berries, ribbons, or dried oranges to suit your style and theme.
Choose a safe and secure way to display your wreath, such as an over-the-door hanger, ribbon, or adhesive hook.
Keep your wreath fresh by misting it lightly with water every few days and avoiding direct heat or sunlight.
Wreath-making is a long-standing tradition in the UK that symbolises warmth, unity, and celebration during the festive season.
Whether you create your own or buy one from a local florist, a Christmas wreath is a beautiful way to welcome the holidays into your home.

FAQs

What is the best base for a wreath?

The best base for a Christmas wreath is a fresh moss base on a wire frame. Moss is easy to work with and, when packed tightly, creates a firm, even surface that holds foliage securely in place. It also retains moisture, which helps keep your greenery looking fresh and vibrant throughout the festive season. A moss-covered wire frame is strong, long-lasting, and ideal for layering foliage and decorations, making it the preferred choice for a successful Christmas wreath.

Is it cheaper to make a wreath or buy one?

It can often be more affordable to make your own Christmas wreath, especially if you plan to create several for your home. Purchasing a few key supplies, such as a wire frame, moss, florist wire, and fresh foliage from your local florist, allows you to design a beautiful, personalised wreath at a reasonable cost.

Buying a ready-made wreath, on the other hand, offers the benefit of expert craftsmanship and convenience. Florists use high-quality greenery and professional techniques to ensure the wreath looks full, balanced, and lasts throughout the season.

Should I put a bow on the top or bottom of a wreath?

You can place a bow either at the top or bottom of your wreath, it depends entirely on your design preference. Traditionally, bows are tied at the bottom centre to create a balanced look and draw the eye downward. However, a bow at the top can add height and give your Christmas wreath a more elegant or formal feel. Try holding your wreath up before securing the bow to see which position works best for your décor.

How long will a fresh Christmas wreath last outside?

A fresh Christmas wreath will usually last three to four weeks when displayed outside in cool winter weather. The cold air helps keep the foliage fresh, while rain and humidity prevent it from drying out. To extend its life, mist the wreath with water every few days and keep it out of direct sunlight or harsh wind. If temperatures are mild, consider moving it to a shaded or sheltered spot to help preserve its freshness throughout the festive season.

Create Your Perfect Christmas Wreath with Julie’s Flowers

Creating your own Christmas wreath is a wonderful way to embrace the spirit of the season, combining creativity, tradition, and the natural beauty of winter foliage. From layering lush greenery to adding those festive finishing touches, each wreath tells its own story and brings warmth to any home.

At Julie’s Flowers, we love helping you make Christmas truly special. Whether you want to design your own wreath or choose one lovingly handcrafted by our florists, every piece is made with fresh, seasonal foliage and a touch of festive flair.

Order online today for same day delivery before 2pm throughout Newcastle, from Gosforth to Tynemouth and Sunderland, including Cleadon Village and South Shields. Explore our flower collection, or get in touch to find out more about our Christmas wreaths.