Just as April showers will bring May flowers, umbrellas can result in some gorgeous springtime wreaths. The umbrella works as a handy "vase" for either artificial or real flowers, and the hook of the umbrella handle makes it easy to hang on a door or wall. Wherever you hang this wreath, you're sure to be showered with compliments.
Video of the Day
Things You'll Need
Umbrella with hook handle
Artificial or real flowers
Ribbon
Removable door hook
Zip lock bag (for real flowers)
Paper towels (for real flowers)
Making a Wreath with Artificial Flowers
Step 1: Select an Umbrella
An ideal umbrella for this project is a children's umbrella, as the smaller size makes a more compact wreath. Also, children's umbrellas come in fun colors and patterns. Just be sure the umbrella has a hook handle so it can hang more easily.
Video of the Day
Step 2: Place Flowers in Flaps
Insert the stems of the artificial flowers into the fabric flaps between the umbrella's spokes. Place the flowers deep enough so most of the stems do not show.
Distribute the flowers evenly among the flaps. You will only need to fill the flaps that face front, as the back of the umbrella will be up against the door or wall.
Step 3: Tie a Ribbon
Wrap a ribbon around the umbrella and tie a bow to secure the stems of the flowers, holding them in place. Of course, the ribbon adds a nice decorative touch, as well.
Step 4: Hide the Umbrella Strap
The umbrella strap is an unsightly appendage that will ruin the visual symmetry of the wreath. All right, that may be an exaggeration, but it's a good idea to hide it so it doesn't flop to the side of the wreath. Just tuck the strap into the ribbon on the back, and it will stay out of the way.
Step 5: Hang It Up
If you don't already have a wreath hanger, place a removable hook (like a 3M Command Hook) on the door. It won't damage the finish of your door when you remove it. Then hang the umbrella wreath on the hook.
Once the wreath is hanging, you can make adjustments to the flowers so they're arranged as you like.
Making a Wreath with Real Flowers
Step 1: Prepare a Water Source
Creating the umbrella wreath with real flowers is very similar, except we'll need a water source to help the flowers stay fresh. Wrap the flower stems in wet paper towels, and place them inside a zip lock plastic bag. You may also want to add a little extra water in the bag. Then zip up the bag to secure the stems.
Step 2: Place Bag within Flap
Insert the flowers within the flap of the umbrella, being sure that the plastic bag is completely hidden beneath the flap. Continue adding flowers to the other flaps.
Step 3: Tie a Removable Bow
Because of the added bulk of the plastic bags and wet paper towels, you will need a longer ribbon to tie around the umbrella. Tie a bow to hold all the stems in place, but don't make a permanent knot. You will want to remove the ribbon daily to replenish the water supply in the plastic bags.
Step 4: Hang the Wreath
Depending on the type of flowers you use, your wreath should stay fresh for about a week. It's a little more work to use real flowers, but the live blooms do add a wow factor to the wreath.
