This year I made my first ever wreath! I've always wanted to try, and this year I finally did. For the last few weeks, I've been collecting various things (pinecones, berries, etc.) from hikes at our local parks and my backyard -- I finally put them to good use!

WHAT YOU NEED:

basic branches (make sure that they don't snap when you try to bend them)
pine branches (great way to put those Christmas tree trimmings to use!)
red berries / holly
pinecone(s)
twine
scissors / gardening shears
hot glue gun (optional)

WHAT TO DO:

First, you'll need to gather your supplies. You definitely don't have to forage your own foliage like I did - a flower market / farmer's market / supermarket / whatever you have works perfectly fine. I am just a big weirdo who grew up in the woods - and have always loved collecting stuff (feathers, leaves, rocks - you name it, and I've probably picked it up!) It's actually quite absurd that it's taken me nearly 24 years to attempt making my first wreath... lol.

Start forming a circular base with your bendable "basic branches." If you go out to forage your own branches, I recommend breaking them off of a living tree - dead ones already on the ground will likely be too dry / brittle to shape into a curve. You could also buy one of those pre-made wreath bases from a craft store.

Tie branches together using twine. I double / triple knotted all my ties.

Once your circular base is formed, start arranging pine trimmings and tying those onto the base.

As you add onto your wreath, you may be able to weave in pine branches without tying them. I personally didn't use my hot glue gun - but that is another option if you are too lazy to tie things. ;)

Attach pinecone(s) using twine (wrap around the center of the pinecone, not the ends).

Feel free to add anything additional of your choice. (I had a few sprigs of a different pine breed and some leaves that I think added another quirky layer to mine. #endlesspossibilities)

Last, weave in your holly. My wreath was full enough that I was able to wedge the holly branches into the little crevices and secure them without the use of twine or glue - but if you have trouble getting them to stay where you want them - feel free to use some.

Trim off any weird-looking rogue branches or twine.

Tie off a loop of twine at the top of your wreath for hanging!