WreathsWreaths

Introduction to Floral Design

Ms. Lancaster

A Wreath is…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 doorWreaths can Wreaths can

be:be:• A garment, like in Polynesia

• Worn around the head, called a diadem

• A necklace, like a lei

History of the WreathHistory 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.

OriginsOrigins

• 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 TodayWreaths 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 WreathsTypes & 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 WreathRound 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 Fresh WreathsWreaths

• 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 WreathsDried/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 WreathsSquare Wreaths• New style trend• Constructed in same

manner as round wreath– different frame shape

• Style began in Europe

Wreaths as FramesWreaths 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 TouchesAdded 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!More Ideas!

Wreath FrameWreath Frame Purpose:  To create a cardboard wreath form and cover it with dried or silk flowers.   Materials: 1 cardboard square – cut out with open square5 stems of silk flowersAccessories and decorations (ribbon, bows, pinecones, etc.)Hot glue gun or potCutting 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

flowers6. 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.