Learn how to create a handwoven willow wreath using willow branches and dried flowers. This simple DIY gets you outdoors gathering materials and gives you a cozy, natural decoration to bring inside.
Mariah from Everything Golden shares her process for making beautiful handwoven willow wreaths. Her approach is relaxed, forgiving, and perfect for a quiet afternoon craft session.
Making wreaths always brings to mind my mother’s hands moving in familiar rhythms. This craft is a gentle way to spend time inside while bringing a hint of the outdoors into your home.
I even competed with a curious moose for the best willow stems around our property, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself exploring the local landscape for materials. A florist can also be a great source for long, flexible stems.
How to Make a Willow Wreath
Materials
— A fistful or two of long, flexible willow stems for a medium wreath.
— Flowers and greenery that dry well or last without water.
— Examples: pink waxflower, heather, love grass, purple limonium, and sage — but use what you love or what grows nearby.
Steps
1 — Begin your wreath base with one long willow stem. Cross the ends and wrap them around each other; the shape won’t be circular at first, and that’s fine.
2 — Add additional stems, laying them over and wrapping the ends together. Build the base until it feels sturdy. Don’t try to force the perfect circle too soon — stability comes first.
3 — The woven base should be tight enough to hold stems and dried flowers without glue. This makes it easy to experiment: tuck florals in, step back, and rearrange until the composition feels right.
What Are Willow Branches Good For?
Willow is a versatile plant with many uses beyond wreath-making:
- Filtering and stabilizing water runoff
- Traditional medicinal uses (historically)
- Chop-and-drop mulch material for gardens
- Animal fodder where appropriate
- Making “willow water” for rooting cuttings
- Providing habitat and shelter for wildlife
- Decorative crafts like wreaths and arrangements
- Building garden trellises and lightweight structures
FAQs
How do you dry weeping willow branches?
Dry willow in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place for several weeks until fully dry. Good air circulation helps prevent mold. Handle them minimally while drying to avoid transferring oils or moisture from your hands.
How long does cut willow last?
Freshly cut willow is very flexible and can stay workable for several weeks. Once fully dried, stems will be stable for long-term decorative use.
How long do you need to soak willow?
If you need extra flexibility for weaving, soak willow stems in water. Longer soaks keep the woody stems pliable, but avoid leaving them so long that they break down. Timing depends on stem thickness; test a piece before committing to the whole batch.
Conclusion
This simple guide will help you weave a charming willow wreath for the season. It’s a meditative, creative project that yields a natural, long-lasting decoration. If you try one, consider sharing a photo of your finished wreath — seeing different interpretations is always inspiring.
If you enjoyed this tutorial, explore other wreath and holiday craft ideas for more inspiration.
- Rosemary Wreath
- Modern Christmas Wreath and Garland
- Crudité Wreath (edible centerpiece idea)
- 10 Modern Holiday Wreath Ideas
DIY Handwoven Willow Wreath
Ingredients
- A fistful of willow stems for one medium wreath
- Assorted dried flowers and greenery that hold up without water
- Suggested: pink waxflower, heather, love grass, purple limonium, sage
Instructions
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Start the base by wrapping one willow stem’s ends around each other; don’t worry about the shape yet.
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Layer additional stems and wrap their ends into the base until the structure feels secure and tight enough to hold florals.
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Tuck dried flowers and greenery into the base, adjusting placement until you are happy with the design.
Thanks to Mariah for sharing this lovely tutorial.
Photos by Mariah of Everything Golden for Sugar and Charm.