Christmas Wreath

Going the Homemade Route with This Year's Wreath

Millions of wreaths adorn homes both inside and out these days, extending holiday cheer well beyond the confines of the Christmas tree and all those stockings hung by the chimney with care. Though you'll find virtually any type imaginable on store shelves, the value of a homemade version shouldn't be overlooked. If you're thinking of going the homemade route this year, it's important to keep a few things in mind.

Financing a New Family Favorite

Pre-decorated, ready-to-hang wreaths can be bought for as little as $3 or $4 if you know where to look. In all likelihood, making one isn't going to be a less expensive alternative. Though buying the foundation, garland and ornamentation is probably going to be a more costly endeavor, the memories and meaning behind a homemade one are priceless.

Keep Expectations in Check

Now matter what type of personal spin you put on a homemade Christmas wreath or how much glitter, hot glue and general love you put into it, it's probably not going to turn out exactly like you pictured. Don't think of it as flawed; consider it an experience accompanied by a lifetime of fond memories. It won't be perfect, but neither are any of the mass-produced ones in the stores. It will, however, be unique. More importantly, it'll be incomparably meaningful.

Consider the Options

Wreaths can be made at home using a simple, stretched-out wire hanger and garland. Somehow, the hangar's innate diamond shape transforms into a circle during the greenery-wrapping process. On the other hand, you could buy a plain, unadorned version at the store and just add your own decorations. Though the latter is simpler, the former is a more "interesting" experience.

Decorations are yet another matter. You could purchase traditional Christmas-themed ornaments to put on the wreath or go with random items representing the personality of each member of the family. Also consider the possibility of foraging for decor. You might be surprised at the holiday beauty readily available in your own backyard or a nicely wooded area nearby.

If you decide to make a homemade wreath this year, the most important element is putting a lot of thought into the finished product. Be sure it means something to you. As the wreaths across america program so wholeheartedly proves, the sentiment behind the wreath is what truly matters.