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Christmas Cranberry Topiary

Every Christmas since 1975, the cranberry topiary has graced the Red Room of the White House. Same for 2007. Here's how to make one for your own home.

Special Presentation : Episode HWHC5-S07 -- More Projects »
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Materials:

decorative bowl or platter of choice
craft foam blocks
foam topiary cone (The one pictured is 3-7/8" x 14-7/8".)
evergreen boughs (Twelve were used for this project.)
hot glue and 2 packs glue sticks
2 bags preserved moss
3 bags real cranberries
scissors

Steps:

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Figure A


  1. Fill the decorative container with moist craft foam and then begin poking evergreen branches into the foam (figure A). The greenery acts as decoration around the tree base and helps hide the inside of the container. Be sure to add water to the craft foam every couple of days — this will keep the greenery fresh longer.
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Figure B
  • Working in small sections, use hot glue to apply a thin layer of preserved moss to the tree cone. Once that's done, start working from the bottom of the cone to hot-glue the individual cranberries (figure B). Try to keep the rows as straight as possible.

  • Once the cone is covered with the berries, gently place the tree in the center of the container. The weight of the tree will keep the arrangement sturdy.

    * Note: Remember, you are working with real berries and greenery so the arrangement will only last three to four weeks. If you want a longer-lasting arrangement, use artificial greenery and berries.

    See how easy it is to do by watching this step-by-step video.

    • Also in this Episode
    Special Presentation : Episode HWHC5-S07
    •White House Christmas 2007 Decorations
    •Christmas Cranberry Topiary
    •Shell Wreath
    •One Ornament, Three Ways
    •White House Christmas 2007 Reflects National Parks
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