Create Your Own Natural Foraged Wreath

Expert Tips from Woodlands.co.uk’s Ruth Feltham

There’s a timeless charm in a handmade Christmas wreath, especially when it's crafted from foliage, berries, and seed heads gathered on a local woodland walk.

Ruth Feltham, Regional Manager, woodlands.co.uk, shares her advice on creating a wreath that not only looks beautiful, but tells a story of the woods.

“When you gather your own materials, you’re connecting with the woodland in a deeply meaningful way,” says Ruth. “Every twig and berry you pick reflects the place it came from, but remember, the woodland is shared with wildlife, so forage lightly and thoughtfully.”

What You'll Need

• A wreath base: willow, rattan, or a metal/wire hoop
• Florist wire or garden twine
• Secateurs or strong, sharp scissors
• Evergreen foliage: ivy, pine, holly, yew, or laurel
• Natural decorations: berries (e.g., hawthorn, holly), pinecones, seed heads, dried orange slices, herbs (like rosemary)
• Optional: moss (to help retain moisture)

Step-by-Step Guide

Forage Responsibly

Collect small amounts of evergreen foliage, berries, and seed heads. Take only what you need, leaving enough for local wildlife. (Berries and seeds are especially important to birds and small mammals in winter.) Avoid damaging trees or plants (don’t strip branches), and do not take from protected species.

Prepare the Base

If using willow or another flexible branch, bend and weave it into a circular ring. If you have a pre-made wreath ring (metal, rattan, etc.), that works just as well. Optionally, wrap some moss around the base with wire to help hold moisture and provide a lush foundation for your wreath.

Build the Greenery

Gather small bundles (“bunches”) of foliage – mix different types (ivy, pine, holly) for texture and colour. Lay a bundle onto the wreath base, overlapping slightly with the previous one, and secure with wire or twine. Continue building around the ring until the base is fully covered and the wreath feels full and balanced.

Add Natural Decorations

Tuck in pinecones, berries, and seed heads. You can secure these with wire if needed or gently weave stems into the base. For a more festive scent or look, include dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or sprigs of aromatic herbs like rosemary. Don’t worry about perfect symmetry as a little wildness adds character.

Finishing Touches

Tie a loop of wire or twine at the back to hang your wreath. If you like, add a ribbon, hessian, satin, or raffia; all work beautifully.

Display and Care

Hang your wreath in a cool, sheltered spot (a door, porch, or garden gate is ideal). If the wreath is outside, check it regularly and lightly mist it with water to maintain moisture. Inside, make sure it’s not too close to radiators or heaters, as they can dry it out quickly.

Ruth Feltham adds, “A foraged wreath is more than just decoration, it’s a way to bring a bit of woodland magic into your home. And because you made it yourself, it feels even more like a gift from nature.”

Ends

Editors notes

Founded with a mission to make woodland ownership accessible and enjoyable, Woodlands.co.uk offers private woodlands for sale across the UK. The company provides resources and guidance for new owners to explore creative ways of managing their woodlands for personal and community benefit. Whether for conservation, leisure, or environmental education, Woodlands.co.uk empowers individuals to steward and protect their woodlands for generations to come.