How to Make a Boxwood Christmas Wreath

Why settle for plastic evergreen wreaths or natural greens that will dry out in a few weeks? Make a preserved boxwood wreath that will keep its good looks throughout the holidays and beyond.
Christmas Wreath Hanging over Mantle

Christmas Boxwood Wreath

Learn to make the festive Christmas wreath with preserved boxwood branches.

Materials Needed:

  • 10" grapevine wreath form
  • 8-10 preserved boxwood branches
  • florist wire
  • wire cutters
  • ribbon for hanging and any desired embellishments

Cut Sprigs

Use wire cutters to clip sprigs approximately 2-4 inches long from preserved boxwood branches (Image 1). A full 12- to 14-inch wreath (Image 2) will require approximately 8-10 branches. Tip: Trim branches one at a time to avoid trimming pieces that might not be needed.

Make Sprig Bunches

Cut an 8-inch length of florist wire using a wire cutter. Gather 4-5 cut sprigs into a bunch and wrap the bottom three times with the florist wire. Twist the wire ends together three times to secure. Do not trim the excess wire because it will be used to secure bunches to the wreath. Repeat with all trimmed sprig pieces.

Boxwood Sprig Bunch

Boxwood Sprigs Tied with Florist Wire

Cut an 8-inch length of florist wire using a wire cutter. Gather 4-5 cut sprigs into a bunch and wrap the bottom three times with the florist wire. Twist the wire ends together three times to secure. Do not trim the excess wire because it will be used to secure bunches to the wreath. Repeat with all trimmed sprig pieces.

Tie Bunches to Wreath Form

Secure bunches to wreath form with excess wire (Image 1). Pieces can either be wrapped around entire form or woven through the grapevine branches. Tie one bunch on the inside, one in the center and one on the outside (Image 2). Repeat with the next row, allowing bunches to overlap by a couple of inches (Image 3). Repeat this process until the entire front side of the wreath is covered. Tip: The final bunches can be wedged into the grapevine sticks instead of secured with wire.

Fill Out and Trim Wreath

Survey entire wreath and fill any holes or even out the shape with individual sprigs or bunches, if necessary (Image 1). Trim the wreath with wire cutters to desired shape or leave wreath bushy for a more casual, natural look. Hang with a ribbon or make a small loop with wire on the wreath's back side. Tip: Keep out of direct sunlight and spray with water every couple of weeks to keep the wreath fresh and green for several years (Image 2).

Next Up

How to Make a Christmas Catnip Toy

Don't forget your furry best friend when making handmade gifts for the holidays. With just basic sewing skills, you can whip up a catnip-filled stocking-shaped toy as a surprise for your favorite kitty.

How to Make a Christmas Cat Spinner Wand

In all of the gifting during the holidays, don't forget about your furry friends. This holly-themed cat toy is easy to make and will encourage hours of playful interaction.

Two Ways to Wrap Gorgeous Gifts With Plain Brown Paper

Plain brown craft paper doesn't have to be boring. Check out these two fresh and inexpensive ideas for wrapping pretty holiday presents.

How to Make Boxwood Christmas Topiaries

Turn boxwood clippings into DIY holiday topiaries to flank a fireplace mantel, bring some life to a holiday tablescape or add height to a buffet table.

How to Make a Life-Sized Wreath Snowman

To amp up your holiday curb appeal designer Dan Faires makes a larger-than-life outdoor snowman from evergreen wreaths and basic lumber.

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.

How to Make a Moss and Cranberry Holiday Wreath

Bring a natural element to your holiday decor with this simple and sophisticated wreath. Its versatile design works as a traditional door wreath or as part of a Christmas centerpiece.

Outdoor Holiday Decorating Idea: Mini Christmas Tree

Spread the holiday cheer to your front porch with this easy-to-decorate mini Christmas tree. A few handmade touches make it special.

How to Make Rustic Nail-Head Christmas Trees

To add rustic charm and curb appeal during the holidays designer Dan Faires makes tree silhouettes with plywood and nail heads.

Boozy Christmas Countdown Wreath

Let's toast to the holidays! Craft this tipsy Christmas advent calendar wreath to (joyfully!) count down the 12 days till Christmas. Keep it for yourself or gift it to your favorite holiday host or hostess.

More from:

Handmade Holidays

What's New in Handmade

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.