A replica of nature
Much of what we buy at Christmas is made to recreate nature, like plastic berries and silk leaves. Yet we are surrounded by the real thing every day of our life.
30% more waste I generated and disposed of during the holiday season compared to the rest of the year.
Green Energy UK is sharing their top tips on how to create a sustainable wreath this Christmas.
Step one: create a place to eat
Step two – Find a base for your crown
You can reuse an old crown base. Or you can buy one from a store made from willow. The most durable way is to make your own using flexible branches from a hazel or willow tree.
Step Three – Use Christmas Tree Branches to Make a Wreath
Christmas tree branches make a brilliant base for your wreath. Most Christmas tree growers will allow you to pick up branches when you come to pick your tree.
Cut the branches into what looks like “bird prints”. Separate them into piles based on their approximate size. Then, layer them on top of each other, starting with the larger branches at the bottom and the smaller ones at the top.
The size of your crown ring will determine how many layers you need. Then, working around your ring, tie each bundle with thread or string.
Step Four – How to Find Natural Objects for the Christmas Wreath
Make sure you have a thick pair of gloves to protect your hands from thorns. Most things can be found along hedges and even in your own garden.
If you spot something beautiful, make sure you aren’t on private property or damaging a plant by taking too much. One or two small denominations is enough for a crown.
Things you can use
– Rosehips can be found at this time of year in many hedges. Their red buttons add color to your crown.
– Laurel is a common leaf found in many gardens and it adds a real lush thickness to your design.
-Holly is very festive- but he has quills so be careful. If you can’t find some with berries, you can find common ivy with green berries on it. Just take some nail polish and paint them red.
-Pine cones can be picked up very easily on a fall walk. Simply wrap some wire around the base to pass it through your crown and secure it securely.
If you’re lucky, you might find pheasant feathers in the woods or caught in holes under hedges.
Step Five – Decorate Your Crown
how you decorate your wreath is really up to you. The main tips are:
-Follow the flow of branches around the crown.
-Keep your design symmetrical or at least choose a simple pattern that you can repeat around it.
-Use thread or string to push around the crown, tying each item securely.
To learn more, check out the original blog post here
