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Wreath making is easy with the right inspiration. See how to make a beautiful fall wreath from basic craft store supplies, and save a ton of money!
For as long as I can remember, I have loved wreaths. They have been a large part of my decor style in both of our homes…and of course as a symbol of hospitality on our front door. I’ve shared so many wreaths on this blog that I have lost track!
Finding Inspiration
Over the years, I have picked up tips and tricks that have made DIY wreath making simple and fun. The actual process is easy to learn, but finding inspiration can be a challenge. It’s important to always have an open mind, and look for inspiration everywhere. For this tutorial, my inspiration was this lovely wreath from Pottery Barn.
When I saw this wreath online, I immediately fell in love. It’s wispy, and I love that it’s a little bit unbalanced. It’s so versatile that it could be hung on your door in very early fall, and stay there until Thanksgiving. The next thing I noticed was the price! The Pottery Barn wreath retails for $149.00…which is way over my price range for door decor. (It is currently on sale, but it’s still super pricey.)
So I took a few minutes, and really studied the wreath. I figured out how it was constructed, and since it was actually very simple, I decided to make one myself. The end result is super cute, but is not an exact replica. Substitutions and variations are necessary when working from an inspiration picture, so don’t forget to think outside of the box.
Supplies Needed
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- grapevine wreath form
- faux leaves
- ivory spray paint
- pumpkin picks
- berries
- cotton boll stems
- glue gun and glue sticks
- I chose not to add any lights, but these fairy lights from Amazon would be a good choice.
Easy Step by Step Assembly
- In a well-ventilated space, lay the faux leaves on a piece of cardboard. Apply the spray paint. Let dry.
- Place the grapevine wreath on a flat surface.
- Place some wispy sticks into the sides of the wreath. This adds dimension and depth, but is totally optional.
- Randomly insert the pumpkin picks into the bottom of the grapevine wreath. Make sure they are secure.
- Place the leaves on the wreath, under and around the pumpkins. Trail a few leaves up the right side of the wreath. This is a “dry fit,” so move them around until you like the placement. (Pictured above.)
- Once the leaves are in place, carefully glue them to the wreath with hot glue. Lift off each leaf, and using a hot glue gun, add a bit of glue to the back, and place it on the wreath. Use a spoon or popsicle stick to press the leaf onto the wreath. (Don’t use your fingers!)
- Once the leaves are in place, add the embellishments.
- Carefully insert the berries, cotton boll stems, or other faux elements in and around the leaves.
- Make a hanger from twine or floral wire, and attach it to the back of the wreath.
- Hang and enjoy! (Final design pictured below.)
Variations and Substitutions
This design can easily be used to make a Christmas wreath. Instead of a grapevine wreath, begin with a pine wreath, real or faux. Swap out the leaves for spray painted poinsettia blooms or magnolia leaves, and instead of pumpkins, use sprayed pine cones.
One big difference between the inspiration wreath and my wreath is the size. The Pottery Barn wreath is a generous 24 inches wide, while mine is 18 inches. I was able to make up for some of the difference by adding the wispy sticks, and placing a few of the leaves so they extend away from the wreath. The PB wreath is truly beautiful, and if you have the budget, you should treat yourself!
Keep in mind that you can basically use anything that can be spray painted. Some ideas are faux eucalyptus, faux rosemary, dried flowers, faux sunflowers, and different types of greenery.
Finishing the Space
After I placed this new wreath on our door, I decided our porch planters needed a small update. I replaced the mums from my fall front porch refresh with large off-white faux pumpkins. I simply placed the pumpkins on the potting soil, and then wrapped the existing ivy around the pumpkins to secure them in place. This look can also be achieved by using very large real pumpkins.
Wreath Hanging Tip
If you don’t want to use a traditional wreath hanger, Command hooks work well. Make sure to get one that holds at least 5 lbs. and follow the directions carefully!
Use What You Have
Before you start any craft project, check your current supplies to see if you have anything useable. Substitute items found in your inspiration picture with items you already have, or can find at places like the Dollar Tree, Hobby Lobby, Walmart, or any big box store.
I was able to save money because I already had a wreath, the cotton boll stems, and the ivory spray paint. I also used white berries from my stash, and sprayed them the same ivory color as the leaves. I had to purchase the faux leaves and pumpkin picks, which made the total cost of my wreath a whopping $15.00!
Gorgeous wreaths are not unattainable. By looking for inspiration everywhere, and using items you already have in different ways, the sky is the limit.
Get all the sources for our fall front porch, and the information on our door color.
More Wreath Making Inspiration
The Ultimate Guide To
Celebrating Fall
A collection of 100 autumn decor ideas, fun crafts, fall wreaths, and yummy recipes all in one place. It’s the ultimate guide to fall, and provides easy links to find exactly what you are looking for!
Just lovely, thank you. I have not thought of spray painting the leaves
I love the wreath. I do want to comment about a movie you mentioned that you were going to watch entitled Love Sarah. I started but did not finish. Anytime a movie takes God’s name in vain is no brainer for me not to watch. I am glad I have control of at least that part of my life.
I like your wreath better than the PB one❤️. Very pretty.❤️
BTW: your wreath is much nicer than the Pottery Barn one
Such a perfect Fall wreath to welcome friends to your home. I hope I can follow your lead and create one just as lovely. Thanks Ann. Another inspiring email.
Ann, your wreath is beautiful. The pumpkins and ivy look so pretty in your planters by your door! You always do such a beautiful job of decorating your porch.
I love your wreath. I plan to make one similar. I also appreciate your annual calendar. I have printed full size months for my wall at work. I also print a full set using “Statement “ size on my printer. This (with a little trimming) fits in my daytimer. Such beautiful artwork that I fully appreciate. Thank you
Ann, this wreath is just stunning! Great job!!
The Pottery Barn wreath is very pretty but way out of budget.You did a great job with your version.I love the cream and white, the wispy pieces give it a natural look.
Love all your wreath ideas!!! Easy to follow instructions too:)
I LOVE your version. It’s stunning. I like the price, too! Always enjoy looking at PB and other shops, but have never had the $ to purchase their lovely things, Thanks for giving beautiful alternatives.
Beautiful wreath! I,too, always have a wreath on my front door(even if the birds make their nest in it!)
Your porch looks great! What a good job you did replicating that wreath.
I think your wreath is more beautiful than the PB wreath you used for inspiration. Guess I will be making one more wreath for Fall! Have a wonderful week.
Love your use of all white on your fall,wreath,and it looks so lovely against your blue door. I have been making my own wreaths after going to a workshop for making an herbal wreath many years ago. So relaxing and also budget friendly. I always am on the lookout for good quality wreath making material when thrift store shopping. Thankyou for all your ideas.
This is so eye-catching and beautiful! Thank you for sharing how to make it. Love it!
Ann,
Love the wreath! Wondering if you might share the hook used to hang it?
Thanks, it’s been a struggle for me to find the right one.
Hi Sheila! It’s a Command hook. Here is the affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3CF6DAf. I couldn’t find one that held more than 5 lbs. but so far so good! I also added a little section to the post with the information. Thanks so much!
wreaths are always very beautiful and the tutorial is the best. thanks for sharing the ideas
I am very interrested in your site and especially wreaths …
I love wreaths and yours are beautiful. Every time I make a new one my husband asks, “Where are we going to store it?” But I love changing them out for the seasons and holidays. Love the tutorial and the inspiration.
Thanks Anne, i pray you are having a restful weekend.
thank you for sharing this information!