How to Make a Christmas Wreath: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide
A handmade Christmas wreath is one of the most welcoming decorations you can create for the festive season. Hung on a front door, above a mantel or in a shop window, it sets the tone for Christmas before anyone steps inside.
In this step-by-step guide, we show you how to make a Christmas wreath from scratch, from choosing the right base to layering greenery, picks, baubles and ribbon. Whether you’re a florist making wreaths to sell, a stylist decorating an event or simply making one for home, Floral Craft stocks the Christmas supplies and florist supplies you need.
Key Takeaways
- Start with a sturdy base such as a willow wreath or an OASIS® foam ring sized to suit your door or wall.
- Build in layers: greenery first, then feature flowers and picks, then baubles and ribbon.
- Secure every element with florist wire or hot glue so it stays put all season.
- Artificial greenery and Christmas flowers hold their look through hot Aussie summer days.
- Finish with a bow and a hanging loop, and step back often to check balance.
What You’ll Need to Make a Christmas Wreath
Gathering everything before you start makes the process faster and more enjoyable. Here’s a simple checklist.
| Item | Why you need it | Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Wreath base | Gives the wreath its shape and something to attach to | Willow wreath bases or OASIS® Naylor base rings |
| Greenery | Creates the full, lush foundation | Christmas greenery and artificial eucalyptus |
| Feature flowers and picks | Adds colour and focal points | Christmas flowers and sprays and Christmas picks |
| Baubles and ornaments | Adds sparkle and texture | Christmas baubles |
| Ribbon | For the bow and hanging loop | Christmas ribbon |
| Wire, glue and tools | Holds everything securely | Florist wire, tapes and glue and florist tools |
Choosing the Right Wreath Base
A willow wreath base has a natural, rustic look and lets you weave or wire stems straight into the twigs. Floral Craft stocks willow wreaths in 30cm, 40cm and 50cm diameters. A foam ring, such as an OASIS® Naylor Base Design Ring, is ideal when you want to push stems in quickly and keep a neat, even outline.
As a rough guide, smaller bases suit internal doors, mirrors and table centrepieces, while larger bases make a statement on front doors, shopfronts and event backdrops.
How to Make a Christmas Wreath in 6 Steps
Follow these steps in order for a full, balanced wreath that looks professionally made.
1Prepare Your Base and Hanging Loop
Best for: Every wreath, before you add any decoration.
Decide where the top of your wreath will be and attach a hanging loop first. It’s much harder to add once the wreath is full.
- Thread a length of ribbon or florist wire through the back of the base.
- Twist or tie it firmly to create a loop.
- Test the loop by hanging the bare base on a hook or door.
2Add the Greenery Foundation
Best for: Creating a full, natural shape.
Greenery forms the body of your wreath, so take your time with this step.
- Cut pine sprays and eucalyptus into shorter pieces of about 10 to 15cm.
- Work in one direction around the base, overlapping each piece to hide the stems of the last.
- Secure each bundle with florist wire or a dab of hot glue.
- Keep the inner and outer edges even so the circle stays round.
Mixing two or three types of greenery, such as pine with gum leaves, gives a richer, more natural look.
3Place Your Feature Flowers
Best for: Adding focal points and colour.
Feature flowers draw the eye and set your colour scheme.
- Choose three to five feature blooms, such as a Donner Christmas Poinsettia or Avery Velvet Magnolia.
- Cut the stems short and wire or glue them into the greenery.
- Group them in odd numbers, either in a cluster at the base or spaced evenly around the wreath.
4Add Picks, Berries and Cones
Best for: Filling gaps and adding texture.
Picks and natural elements add depth and finish the wreath.
- Tuck Christmas picks such as berry or gumnut picks between the flowers.
- Wire artificial pine cones in small groups of two or three.
- Use berry bundles to add pops of colour.
5Finish with Baubles and Sparkle
Best for: Adding shine and a festive finish.
Small baubles and ornaments catch the light and make the wreath feel festive.
- Thread florist wire through the hanger of each bauble and twist it onto the base.
- Use smaller baubles so they don’t overpower the greenery.
- A light mist of Design Master metallic spray on cones or leaves adds a subtle shimmer.
6Tie the Bow
Best for: The final, finishing touch.
A bow is the classic finish for any Christmas wreath.
- Choose a wired ribbon from our Christmas ribbon range so the loops hold their shape.
- Make a bow with two to four loops and two tails.
- Wire it to the top or bottom of the wreath and trim the tails at an angle.
For more ribbon ideas, see our guide on how to put ribbon on a Christmas tree, or use a ready-made Velvet Christmas Bow to save time.
Wreath Ideas for an Aussie Summer Christmas
Native and Eucalyptus Wreaths
A wreath built on artificial eucalyptus with gumnut picks and white or champagne accents celebrates our local landscape and suits coastal and relaxed homes.
Classic Red and Green
Pine greenery, red poinsettias, berries and gold baubles create a timeless look that never goes out of style.
Ready-Made Wreaths for a Head Start
Short on time? Start with a ready-made wreath such as the Banff Pine Wreath with Berries or Spruce Pine Wreath, then personalise it with your own flowers, baubles and ribbon.
Caring for Your Christmas Wreath
Artificial wreaths can be used year after year with a little care. Hang outdoor wreaths in a sheltered spot out of direct sun where possible, as strong summer sun can fade colours over time. After Christmas, store your wreath flat or hanging in a box to protect its shape. You’ll find more storage tips in our guide to Christmas garland ideas.
Shop Christmas Wreath Supplies at Floral Craft
Ready to make your wreath? Floral Craft stocks wreath bases and ready-made wreaths, greenery, Christmas flowers and everything you need to finish them.
Explore Our Christmas Range
Complete your look with Christmas picks, baubles and Christmas ribbon, or browse the full Christmas collection.
Wholesale Supply Australia Wide
As a trade wholesaler based in Norwood, South Australia, we supply florists, retailers and event stylists with Christmas decorations and floristry supplies, delivered Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing, or contact our team for help choosing the right products.
FAQ
What do I need to make a Christmas wreath?
You’ll need a wreath base, greenery, feature flowers or picks, baubles, ribbon, and florist wire or hot glue to hold everything in place. Browse our Christmas wreaths range for bases.
What size wreath base should I use?
Smaller bases suit internal doors, mirrors and tables, while larger bases make more of an impact on front doors and shopfronts. Floral Craft stocks willow wreath bases in 30cm, 40cm and 50cm diameters.
How do I attach decorations to a wreath?
Florist wire is the most secure option for flowers, baubles and cones. A hot glue gun is quick for lightweight items. Always secure each piece firmly so the wreath can be hung and moved.
Can I hang a Christmas wreath outside in the Australian summer?
Yes. Artificial greenery and flowers are well suited to outdoor use. For the best results, hang the wreath in a sheltered spot away from strong direct sun to help protect the colours.
How long does it take to make a Christmas wreath?
Most simple wreaths can be made in an hour or two. Starting with a ready-made wreath and adding your own decorations is even quicker.
Can I reuse my Christmas wreath next year?
Yes. Artificial wreaths can be reused for many seasons. Store them in a box, flat or hanging, to protect their shape, and refresh them with new ribbon or picks each year.
Where can I buy wholesale wreath supplies in Australia?
Floral Craft supplies wreath bases, greenery, picks and ribbon to florists, retailers and stylists, with delivery Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing.