Making an Ivy Head Wreath

Ivy wreaths make attractive festive headdresses.

Wreaths have been worn as festive headdresses since ancient times. Made from evergreen leaves such as laurel, bay and olive, they were awarded by the Greeks and Romans to athletes and warriors as symbols of honor. Wreaths are still used today and make attractive headdresses for weddings or other occasions, no matter what the season. An ivy head wreath can be integrated into a more elaborate headdress or worn by itself.

Things You'll Need

• Wire
• Wire cutters
• Florists tape
• Ivy

Instructions

1. Measure the head of the wearer of the wreath. Using wire cutters, cut two lengths of thin-gauge florist's wire to fit the circumference of the head. Add an extra inch at each end.

2. Bend the wire into a circle. Place the shape onto the wearer’s head to check the fit. Twist the loose ends of the wire together and fix it in place with brown or green florist's tape.

3. Weave lengths of ivy in and out of the two pieces of wire, ensuring the wire frame is completely covered. Tuck the loose ends into the wire. Attach the leaves to the frame with florist's tape.

4. Attach the end of each new piece of ivy underneath the previous piece. Fix them in place with more tape. Repeat step 3 until the frame is completely covered.

Tips & Warnings

• Soak the ivy stems in water overnight to achieve greater flexibility. Allow them to dry before wearing the headdress.

• For extra security, tape the ivy to the wire at two-inch intervals as well as at the end of each strand.

• Fill in any gaps in the headdress with smaller sprigs of ivy. Ribbons and berry clusters are other decorative options for space fillers.

• Cover loose, sharp ends of wire with florist's tape

References

• New Age: Solstice Celebrations -- Making a Wreath