Nature Craft: Mini Holiday Wreath for a Doll House

Well, life is what happens when you are busy making plans. We've all heard the saying, and it usualy does ring true. This time was no exception.

A few months ago in September we stayed in a cabin in Rhinelander. While there we went on this little nature trail for a small walk. It was on this trail that I saw this small little tree just growing right in the middle of the trail. It was just a tiny sapling and it was perfectly sized and shaped for a doll's house. I bent down and picked it and gently took it home.

Recently I took out this tree to reshape and maybe decorate for my doll house. It was still green and still in great shape.. just a bit dry and less flexible. It was due to this condition that it broke in half on me, and no longer could be used as a tree. I was pretty upset, I'll admit, but I soon found another use for this lovely plant. I would use it's branches to make a little mini wreath for a doll house.

You will want to keep your chosen plant around the house for at least three months to assure that it will not wilt or turn brown on you. Once you have let the plant sit and are satisfied with how it's been preserved gather your materials.

I went and searched the house for these small gold rings that I knew I had, and for my hunter green embroidery thread. Then, I recalled having small, clear red beads as well that could work as berries. I sat down with my supplies and got to work.

I started by dabbing a small line of Tacky Glue to the gold ring and wrapping the thread around it. The glue helps the thread not to slide, and the thread is a better medium to glue the branches to than the slippery gold ring. Continue to glue and wrap the thread around the ring until it's completely covered. (see photo)

You will want to be really careful when doing this next step as the plant might be very delicate and break. Start by choosing branches of the plant that have a slight curve to them. Break them off and arrange them to the front of the ring, assuring that the curves follow the shape of the ring. Don't worry if you have a bit sticking out, I find it actually looks more realistic with a few branch ends unglued and sticking out. Then I moved on to the outer edge and glued more branches on the ring. I used the same methods as I used on the front. I repeated this for the inside of the ring as well. When you are done you should have a nice, full wreath. If you see a spot where the branches are matted or look less full, fill it in with more branches. Repeat this filling in until you are happy with the wreath;s shape.

Once you are satisfied with your wreath's look, you can add some small red beads to mimic the look of berries, or, if you like you can leave it plain.

That's it! Sit back and admire your creation! You deserved it!