DIY Network

Decorative Herb and Fruit Wreath From "DIY Crafts" episode DIC-264

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Instead of simply hanging this wreath, try using it as a centerpiece surrounded by the warm, elegant glow of candles. Figure A

Dokhi Mirmirani creates a colorful wreath -- that looks good enough to eat -- and is a festive addition to home decor anytime of the year.

Materials:

10-12" wet foam wreath base
Plastic wrap
3" and 4" green floral picks
Package of toothpicks
Medium-gauge stub wire
Needle nose pliers
Scissors
15 limes
8 bunches fresh mint
5 bunches oregano or thyme
15 limes
9 lady apples (extra small)
5 yellow plums
5 red plums
14 kumquats

1. Cover the foam wreath base with a single layer of plastic wrap.

2. Divide mint and oregano (or thyme) into half bunches and wire each bunch using a double-leg mount technique.

3. Push each bunch into the wreath randomly, around the outer and inner edges of the base (save about 10 bunches for touch-ups and additional fill material). Work from the outside and top edges, working toward the center opening of the form.

4. Insert picks into fruits (heavier fruit may need more than one pick; smaller ones can be attached with toothpicks). Attach fruit (in groups of three) into the base (figure A).

5. Once all fruit has been inserted, cover any empty areas with remaining bunches or hervs.

6. When finished, spray entire wreath with water and keep in cool place.

To create the double-leg mount, place a medium-gauge wire along the stem of the flower or vegetable so that 2/3 of the wire is above the base of the stem and 1/3 is below it. Bend the longer end of the wire down to form a hairpin. Now twist the longer end around the stem and the shorter piece of wire, leaving two sides of equal length.

RESOURCES :
Wreaths: The Best of Martha Stewart Living
Model: 0517887762
Author: Martha Stewart and Carolyn B. Mitchell

The Complete Book of Wreaths: 200 Delightful and Creative Designs
Model: 1579902081
Author: Chris Rankin

The Complete Book of Garlands, Circles and Decorative Wreaths
Model: 0754801799
Author: Terence Moore

Wreaths and Garlands: Home Decorating Workbooks with 20 Step-by-Step Projects
Model: 082305876X
Author: Lisl Dennis

Country Living Handmade Wreaths: Decorating throughout the Year
Model: 0688161359
Author: Arlene Hamilton Stewart

Wreath Making Basics: More than 80 Wreath Ideas
Model: 0806902795
Author: Dawn Cusick

How to Do Wreaths If You Think You Can't
Model: 1574860607
Author: Leisure Arts Staff

The Ultimate Wreath Book: Hundreds of Beautiful Wreaths to Make from Natural Materials
Model: 087596978X
Author: Ellen Spector Platt

Wreaths: Creative Ideas for the Year Round
Model: 0395977770
Author: Richard Kollath
(1992)

To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.

Houghton Mifflin Co.
Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-351-5000
Email: tradecustomerservice@hmco.com

The Complete Book of Nature Craft Techniques
Model: 0875967140
Author: Deborah Morgenthal

GUESTS :

Dohki Mirmirani
13826 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Phone: 818-986-0333
Owner, Jasmine Blue