How to Make a Fresh Magnolia Wreath

Holiday decor is simple and inexpensive when it's collected from your own backyard. Gather magnolia leaves to create a fresh take on a traditional Christmas wreath.

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Materials Needed:

  • 80-100 fresh magnolia leaves
  • florist wire
  • wire cutters
  • 10" grapevine wreath

Arrange Leaves

Gently strip leaves from branches. Collect 4-6 leaves in a bunch, holding them by the stems. If working with leaves of varying sizes, arrange smaller leaves in front and larger leaves in back. Tip: It is best to work with small to mid-sized magnolia leaves because larger ones may flop over once the wreath is assembled.

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Wrap Bunches

Cut a piece of florist wire approximately 10 inches long (Image 1). Wrap tightly around stems of leaf bunches to secure. Leave enough florist wire loose to secure each bunch to the wreath (Image 2).

Tie Bunches to Wreath

Secure each bunch to grapevine wreath with excess florist wire (Image 1). Twist wire tightly at the back of the wreath to hold bunches in place (Image 2). Add remaining bunches, positioning them close together with all stems pointing in the same direction (Image 3). Step back from the wreath occasionally to make sure it looks full and even. Continue to tie on bunches until entire wreath is covered, and use as a candle centerpiece or hang as a traditional wreath (Images 4 and 5). Tip: This fresh magnolia leaf wreath will slowly dry and last about 4-6 weeks. If you don't like the look of the dried leaves, remove them and save wreath form to reuse next year.

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