Wreaths Introduction to Floral Design Ms. Lancaster

A Wreath is… a ring (or other shape) –made of flowers (dried, silk, or fresh), leaves, ribbon, herbs, etc. used as an ornament, hanging on a wall or door Wreaths can be: A garment, like in Polynesia Worn around the head, called a diadem A necklace, like a lei

History of the Wreath The making of wreaths is an ancient and honored art that began about 1000 years B.C. In ancient Rome, people used decorative wreaths as a sign of victory and celebration In Greek mythology: –Apollo is shown wearing a laurel wreath –Rose wreaths were presented to Aphrodite, symbolizing love.

Origins Funeral Wreaths were a Roman custom, they appear carved on the sarcophagus’ The use of evergreens and wreaths as symbols of life was also an ancient custom of the Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews In the early days in Europe, people would put wreaths on their doors to identify their home; similar to house numbers today –Each house had a different wreath of flowers, sometimes grown by the home owner

Wreaths Today Today, wreaths are a common custom in New England, with a different wreath for each season Evergreen wreaths are a common Christmas decoration, sometimes with winter accents like pinecones or colored bows Christian households and churches often use an advent wreath to celebrate Christmas

Types & Styles of Wreaths Think of Themes: –Particular Flowers (roses, hydrangeas, wheat) –Herbs (cooking ingredients, lavender) aromatic –Colors (to match décor of room) –Location (bathroom, bedroom) –Special Holidays Seasonal sentiments –Bunnies –Angels –Fall leaves

Round Wreath Most traditional form The circle and the sphere are symbols of immortality Strong identity and symbolism in Christian churches Still a common tradition today Can be plain or decorated

Fresh Wreaths Can “dry in place” Good option is to “Freeze Dry” –Flowers and foliage can be freeze dried to keep their color and form Lasts 2 weeks if kept moist Common form is live or growing –ivy –Succulents –Pansies Possible to simply attach living flowers/plants to a wreath form or garland

Dried/Silk Wreaths Made of dried or silk materials –(permanent florals) Lasts many years if routinely cleaned Does not rot or fade Can be a permanent decoration in home

Square Wreaths New style trend Constructed in same manner as round wreath –different frame shape Style began in Europe

Wreaths as Frames Good option for permanent florals and silks Easy to construct, and alter Can be decorated with almost any material Great paper craft Can be covered in tinfoil, fabric, ribbon, etc. Desktop or Wall Frame Easily decorated to fit theme

Added Touches Hanging from a ribbon (or a dog) Linking multiple wreaths together –Like a chain, hanging Holds photos/address behind wreath frame –Includes information Greenery Only

More Ideas!

Wreath Frame Purpose: To create a cardboard wreath form and cover it with dried or silk flowers. Materials: 1 cardboard square – cut out with open square 5 stems of silk flowers Accessories and decorations (ribbon, bows, pinecones, etc.) Hot glue gun or pot Cutting Knife and/or Scissors

Procedure: 1.Cut out a small rectangle with scissors. 2.Use a floral knife to cut out a smaller square inside the rectangle, to form a frame. 3.Decide on the “look” you want to achieve – think of color schemes, type of flowers, placement, purpose, etc. 4.Pick out your silk and dried flowers. 5.Choose accessories that match and coordinate with your flowers 6.Plan out your placement by placing everything on your frame. PLAN BEFORE YOU GLUE! 7.Begin gluing your flowers or ribbon, whatever will be in the back. 8.Add flowers and accessories in order of back to front. 9.Finish decorating your frame and add finishing touches. 10.CLEAN up your area.