Johnson's Garden Centers Text File document - copyright 2002
PDF file available at http://www.johnsonsgarden.com/advice.html#christmas

Fresh Handmade Evergreen Wreaths

SUPPLY LIST:      
- heavy-gauge wire wreath ring            
- pruning shears       
- wire cutters      
- spool of lightweight wire
- evergreen branches (Cut some branches from the bottom of your
Christmas tree or from the evergreens in your landscape--juniper, blue
spruce, yew, mugo pine or any other short-needled evergreen works very
well.)

    1.  Start by securing the end of the spooled wire to the ring,
looping and twisting it to keep it in place. Lay the first bunch of stem
ends to the wire you've just secured to the ring, pointing the tips of
the branches in the direction you're most comfortable with (either
clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on whether you're right-or
left-handed). Wrap wire at the bottom third of the branches around the
ring three times, leaving a loop on the third pass and feeding the spool
through the loop, pulling it tight to the branches and the ring.

    2.  Place the next handful of greenery over the first bunch at the
wired ends, covering the wired ends of the first bunch with the second.
Without cutting the spooled wire, bring it down to the second bunch and
lash the branches to the ring three times, again forming a loop on the
third pass through which to feed the spool and pull the wire tight to
the ring.

    3.  Continue this process around the ring, layering and
wire-wrapping the evergreen stems to cover the cut ends of the previous
bunch. If you choose, occasionally mix in artificial or natural
decorative stems that add color or a different texture.

    4.  As you complete the circle, leave a small opening for a bow or
other decorative at the tip. This is where you'll form the final loop,
feeding the spool of wire through the loop and pulling it tight. Measure
about 12" of wire for a hanger (shorter or longer depending on where you
 plan to place your wreath) and cut the wire from the spool (don't use
pruning shears to cut the wire as it will nick the blade of your
shears.)

    5.  Place the bow or decorative at the small opening at the top,
lashing it to the ring in the same manner you secured the evergreen
branches.

    6.  To improve the longevity of your wreath, spray it with
Wilt-Pruf, an antidesiccant that seals in the moisture of the evergreen.
This helps preserve its beauty while diminishing drying and shedding.
Greenery will last about three weeks indoors, and four to six weeks
outside.