How to Make a Magnolia Leaf Christmas Banner
A Christmas banner is similar to a swag, except that it hangs horizontally across a mantel or on a wall. It is easy to make and, depending on what material you choose, can last for many years. Magnolia leaves are the medium for this banner. When decorated with metalic gold garland and gold balls of various size, the finished craft is fit for a king! Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Harvest or purchase magnolia branches. Many florists carry this hardy foliage.
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Wire two long branches together at the cut ends with paddle wire. The branches should be 16 to 24 inches in length. Overlap the cut ends by 6 inches, then wire the two pieces together with paddle wire. This will be the framework of the banner.
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Add more branches, shorter in length, but wired at the center point. You want to achieve a horizontal "bow" or "S" shape. The more branches you wire together, the sturdier your banner will be when completed. Use twigs or bare branches in addition to the fresh magnolia leaves to achieve a designer look that will contrast with the lush foliage.
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Wire the shorter branches midway to hold them in place. The short branches should now be wired at the centerpoint and also along the midpoint of the long branches to keep them from flopping down.
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Continue adding foliage and branches until the banner looks full and lush.
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Turn the banner over and attach a wire across the main support branches. This will be used to hang your banner on the wall.
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Twine gold metalic garland, gold colored beads or gold braid through the foliage.
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Attach gold Christmas ball ornaments to the garland by running paddle wire through the loop hanger. Attach the wire to the banner, tucking the balls into the foliage.
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Hang your finished banner over a mantel or above the buffet.
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Tips & Warnings
Magnolia dries well. It will lose the green color, but not the glossy sheen on the leaves.
