Southeast Kentucky Grapevine Crafts

Grapevines may not be edible, but they're still useful.

Vitis is a genus of flowering plants better known as grapevines. Grapevines are very useful plants, producing edible fruits and leaves. Even the tough, woody vines themselves have several uses in craft projects. Many species of grapevines are native to the United States--particularly the southeastern states, such as Kentucky--and these vines are perfect for crafts.

Grapevine Ball

Make a simple, decorative grapevine ball. You will need a large bundle of dried grapevines, craft glue and a Styrofoam craft ball. The size of the ball you use is up to you, but make sure that you have enough grapevines to completely cover the ball. Wrap the ball with the dried grapevines and use glue to secure the vine to the ball. You can make several of these and place them in a bowl as a centerpiece.

Grapevine Wreath

A grapevine wreath makes a festive addition to any door or hallway. The grapevines that grow wild in southeastern Kentucky are very hardy and strong, but also easy to weave together. To create a wreath, you need a large bundle of dried grapevines; the amount required depends on what size wreath you wish to make. Cut the ends of the grapevine bundle so that they're even, with no stray vines sticking out. Form the vine bundle into a large circle and tie the ends of the grapevine bundle with raffia so that they stay together. Tie the wreath in several other places for added strength. Decorate it with ribbons and plastic grapes, if desired.

Grapevine Nest

Make a decorative nest table centerpiece out of grapevines. You need a bundle of dried grapevines, enough for whatever size nest you want to make. You also need a bowl (large or small) and a hot glue gun. Wrap the vines around the bowl one time, completely covering the bowl, then glue the vines together with the glue gun. Don't glue the vines to the bowl; glue them to each other so that they take the shape of the bowl. Create at least two more layers of vines, then remove the bowl. Fill the vine nest with decorative plastic eggs or balls.

Grapevine Sculptures

Create sculptures using grapevines and some creativity. Form a bundle of grapevines into a swan or another animal with a simple body shape. You can also create a miniature scarecrow out of grapevines and decorate it with your child's old clothes.

References

• "Grapevine Wreaths & Baskets Craft Book"; Sandy Dye; 1984
• Crafters Love Crafts: Grapevine Crafts
• University of Kentucky: Growing Grapes in Kentucky