In this two-part series, follow step-by-step directions and learn professional tips for decorating a Christmas wreath.
I discovered an inspiring home decor shop near me called Total Bliss. It’s a favorite source of ideas all year, but at Christmas it becomes a true wonderland. I recently spent time there while the store was being dressed for the season and learned many practical decorating techniques from the talented team.
During that visit the owner, Nancy, demonstrated several wreath styles and shared the tricks she uses for professional results. I took notes and photos so I could pass along the best guidance for making and decorating a wreath for your front door or interior display.
Below are general tips that apply to any wreath size or style, followed by clear practical advice you can use when assembling your own holiday wreath.
WREATH SIZE
When a wreath is labeled with a size, that measurement is taken from the outermost tip to the opposite outermost tip when the wreath is fully fluffed. In other words, a 24″ wreath is 24 inches across after you shape and fluff it. Knowing this helps you choose the right proportion for the door or wall where it will hang.
SELECT THE CORRECT SIZE
Size matters for visual impact. As a general guideline, a 28″–30″ wreath looks balanced on a standard 36″ wide door, while a 24″ wreath works well on a 30″ wide door. If you prefer swags instead of wreaths, two complementary swags can be attractive on double doors, although matching wreaths are a classic and polished choice.
THINK AHEAD
Decide in advance how heavily you plan to decorate the wreath. If you intend to add a lot of ornaments, picks, or other embellishments, choose a less expensive base that you don’t mind covering. Conversely, if you love the look of a luxurious, full wreath with mixed greenery, let it be the star and simply add a beautiful bow to finish it.
WHY PROFESSIONALS PREFER FAUX
Faux wreaths offer longevity and convenience. Their flexible branches make layering picks, ornaments, and accents simple: you can wrap and tuck elements securely into the structure. Use cable ties instead of floral wire when you need stronger or quicker attachment—cable ties are easy to tighten and hold items firmly in place.
If adhesive is necessary, hot glue works well, but avoiding glue when possible makes the wreath easier to disassemble and redecorate year after year.
ESSENTIAL DECORATING TIPS
- Fluff and shape the base first: Spend time spreading and separating branches so the wreath reads full and even before you add decorations.
- Create a clear focal point: Place a bow, cluster of ornaments, or a decorative accent slightly off-center or at the lower third of the wreath for a professional look.
- Layer for depth: Start with larger elements (pinecones, large picks), then add medium items and finish with small ornaments or berries to create dimension.
- Balance color and texture: Repeat colors and textures around the wreath so the eye moves naturally, and vary finishes (glossy, matte, metallic) for visual interest.
- Secure attachments: Tuck picks into the base and reinforce with cable ties or discreet floral wire where needed. Use hot glue sparingly and only where items must be permanently attached.
- Test the visual from a distance: Step back to view the wreath as a whole and make adjustments so it looks balanced from several feet away.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
When the season is over, remove detachable decorations and store them separately to protect fragile ornaments. Keep the wreath in a cool, dry place and avoid crushing it—hanging storage or a dedicated wreath box preserves shape for the next year.
For a complete, step-by-step tutorial on assembling and decorating a wreath from start to finish, consult the designer’s specific instructions in the companion article from Worthing Court Blog, which provides a practical, photo-guided process for making a Christmas wreath.
These professional tips will help you craft a wreath that looks polished and seasonal, whether you prefer a simple, elegant design or a richly adorned centerpiece for your holiday entryway. Remember: choose the right size, decide how much decoration you want up front, favor faux for durability and flexibility, and secure elements carefully so your wreath looks great through the holidays.