Trimming with Nature
Winter Wreaths
The wreath is a beautiful symbol of
warmth and eternity. An evergreen plant in the endless shape of a circle is an
ancient representation of everlasting life and hope. The word wreath comes from
the old English word “writhen”, meaning to writhe or to twist. Wreaths are made
by twisting vines or twigs into a circular frame. Evergreen plants, such as
holly, ivy, and pine, have long been used to create holiday wreaths. Such
greens as holly, ivy, and mistletoe have special meaning since they not only
stay green, they bear fruit during the harsh winter months.
The holiday wreath has its origin in ancient
civilizations. The early Greeks and Romans brought
green boughs indoors as a reminder of nature's vitality. Pagan rituals
of the Winter Solstice often featured a wreath of evergreen with four candles
representing the elements of earth, wind, water, and fire. In Sweden, wreaths
were arranged similarly, with candles that symbolized the power of the sun.
Centuries later, the tradition was absorbed by the Christian culture and
evolved into the Advent wreath.
But for many of us the wreath’s symbolism is simple.
The wreath is a sign of welcoming and holiday cheer—a toast to the winter
season, emphasizing generosity and the gathering of loved ones. And, as with
all traditions, the modern among us may be tempted to take the wreath to new
levels—exploring with shape, materials, and colors. Fun modifications on a
traditional wreath include working with laurel, magnolia leaves, sparkles, or
even feathers.
There is something special about making your own
wreath. Here are some wreath-making tips for those who are inclined to endeavor
upon this cheerful holiday activity!
One of the keys to a fabulous wreath is an abundance
of materials. Some basics you should have on hand include greens, pinecones,
berries, bells, ribbon, hot glue gun, and wire.
Fill a large bag with 6-inch clippings from evergreen
trees or bushes right outside your home. Some common local plants include
cedar, pine, fir, spruce, or juniper. Use a wire wreath frame, or make your own
by re-shaping twigs or branches with twine, or using a wire clothes hanger (the
hook can be left for hanging your wreath).
Select several of the greens and hold them together
in a bunch with the stems at one end. Place the bundle around the frame and
attach it with floral wire around the bundle and frame. Gather another bundle
of foliage and place it so that the leaves overlap the stems of the first
bunch. Make sure both bunches face the same direction. Continue adding small
bundles until the circle is complete. Lift the leaves of first bundle you
attached, to add the last bundle. Step back, take a look, and trim if
necessary. Add pinecones by wrapping wire to the base of the cone, and then
attaching with excess wire to the wreath. Now have fun decorating (using wire
and the glue gun), varying the size and placement of the ornamentations.
Whether the wreath you hang is a locally made
masterpiece or a homemade hand-me-down, it has a long tradition of meaning
behind it. Hanging a wreath on the door to welcome visitors, or sprucing with
sprigs on a mantel, window, or stairwell to add a splash of warmth and nature
on a winter's day is a sure way to build excitement for the coming season.
–Alysse Robin
Posted by Chris Hewitt
on 2:40 PM.
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