Leaves are changing here in New England, there’s a crispness in the air and that means it’s time to get the fall wreaths out. If you’re wanting to burn all 10 fingers with a hot glue gun, I highly recommend this DIY. Haha! I ended up using corn husks I got off Amazon which are technically for tamales. Now if someone wants to come on over and actually use the 99% remaining in the bag for tamales, I won’t complain. This wreath making endeavor is actually quite easy and inexpensive and looks lovely hanging up so give it a try. These gorgeous pictures are by Ruth Eileen Photography.
Start by gathering supplies. I used an 8″ straw wreath from Michaels. They are really inexpensive and light which makes them perfect for a glass door (they won’t bang around noisily) or hanging inside on a command hook. This whole project can be done for less than $20 so it’s a great way to decorate on the cheap and would make a wonderful gift for someone.
SUPPLIES
8″ Straw wreath
Hot Glue Gun
Extra Hot Glue sticks
About 10-12 cornhusk, torn into strips
About 10 stalks of wheat
The corn husks have natural veins in them that rip nicely, allowing you to segment them by hand without using scissors. I found mine easier to pull from the wider base toward the narrower tip. Start by holding it firmly with two fingers and then using your other hand, tear the edge of the corn husk like you are opening a granola bar. It should separate easily. If not add a small slit with your scissor and then try pulling. Of note, you don’t technically have to break them into smaller pieces by tearing the corn husks but I found that working with a smaller wreath frame, I wanted smaller pieces of corn husk. If you’re making a larger wreath, try using the entire husk.
Start by placing a single corn husk on your wreath frame at a slight angle upward, see the pictures. Hot glue the torn corn husk on to the straw wreath frame in one continuous direction about the same angle all the way around, overlapping a bit as you go so you don’t see the straw of the frame underneath. You’ll get the hang quickly. I made sure the wisps of the corn husk were always arching up.
There’s a natural upturn to the husk which when you layer on your wreath, creates nice texture. You can see the wisps on the wreath as I make it. As you’re going, tuck in some wheat stalks, even dried flax if you have it. It varies it up and adds a nice touch.
It took about half an hour to get it all glued to perfection if you’re not distracted by kiddos. Don’t forget to lift it up while you’re working away and look at the wreath from a different angle. You’ll see spaces you may have missed or areas that need more attention by looking at it from a different perspective, as with most things in life.
Add a lovely ribbon and get your fall on! I love the way this wreath reflects the afternoon sunlight. It’d look beautiful in a window and you don’t have to worry about fading. Enjoy!
