How to Make a Della Robbia Holiday Wreath

Everyone loves the look of Della Robbia wreaths, named after the Italian artist who used the bounty of nature as a theme in his work. You can see these wreaths, with real oranges, apples, grains and seed pods, in colonial villages and houses such as Williamsburg and Monticello in Virginia.
They are a challenge for the home floral designer because the heavy fruit has a tendency to separate from the wreath base. By following a few simple steps, you can make your own beautiful Della Robbia wreath.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Straw wreath form No. 22 wire Assorted greens Assorted nuts, fruits, vegetables and seed pods Wreath picks Fern pins

1. Using wire or fern pins, fasten a thick base of boxwood or other evergreens to the wreath form.

2. Wire groups of three acorns, five almonds or three walnuts together and fasten to a pick. You can also do this with okra pods, small pine cones or any kind of seed pod.

3. Attach heavy fruits and vegetables to the wreath by piercing the fruit with wire and fastening it securely to the base.

4. Add dried flowers and dried fruits, small grains and clusters of winter berries to the wreath with fern pins.

5. Replenish the fruit as it gets wilted or moldy.

Tips & Warnings

• Hang the wreath to decorate it if it will be on your door.

• Don't use fake or plastic fruit or greenery -- it ruins the effect of this gorgeous natural wreath. If the weather is below freezing for several nights, bring the wreath inside. Skip the bow for an authentic wreath.

Resources

• Southern Living Christmas Ideas