How to Make a Fresh Pine Wreath Centerpiece

Give your table a touch of the outdoors with a centerpiece of fresh pine branches shaped into a wreath. By adding pinecones and colorful decorative accents, you can make the wreath an attractive holiday showpiece. Bring the fresh smell of pine into your home this Christmas by creating a wreath centerpiece in a few easy steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Pine branches
• Pruning shears
• Floral or craft wire
• Pinecones
• Holiday decorations
• Colorful ribbons

1. Cut pine branches to size Cut pine branches into manageable sizes. Consider the size of the wreath you will be making. It will help if you already know which table you will put the wreath on so that you can build the centerpiece to scale.
2. Lay pine branches in a circle Lay the branches in a circular pattern by overlapping them. Lay the leafy end of a new branch over the stem end of the previous branch so that the woody branches stay out of sight.
3. Using craft or floral wire, tie the branches together to help keep the shape.
4. Layer the branches to desired thickness Add another layer or two until you achieve the thickness or lush appearance that you desire.
5. Add pinecones and decor Position your pinecones and holiday décor over the branches and tie them down with craft wire.
6. Position wreath on table Position the wreath on the table and add other ornaments or accessories.

Tips & Warnings

• Because fresh pine branches will be discarded at the end of the season, you can create your wreath directly over the designated table by simply laying down the branches in a circular pattern and adding the decorations--you don't have to tie anything down. At the end of the season, simply put away your décor and dispose of the pine branches.
• If you tie the branches and accessories down securely, you can hang the wreath as a door or window accent.
• When buying a fresh Christmas tree, consider pruning a few branches off the bottom to use for your table and door wreaths.
• You can use candles to decorate the table wreath but be aware that pine needles are highly combustible.
• Freshly cut pine branches leak sap that could stain your furniture. Protect your table surfaces by placing a placemat or table runner under the wreath.
• Wear gloves when cutting pine branches to protect your hands from the tree sap. If you prefer to work barehanded, you can either apply a small amount of vegetable oil on your hands to keep the sap off, or remove the sap stains later with your favorite adhesive remover.