Weaving Ribbon into Wreaths: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Weave Ribbon Through a Wreath

Weave a ribbon through a wreath to enhance a holiday theme.

Wreaths suit nearly any time of year. You can use a woven grapevine or evergreen boughs as a base, then fasten ribbon to it to complement your decor, the season, or a holiday. For instance, spring blooms and bright colors work well for early-year festivities, while stars and stripes are fitting for Independence Day. In autumn, pine cones and seasonal items can dress up a wreath.

During Christmas, it's customary to hang an evergreen wreath with holly berries and red bows on the front door. You might also place additional wreaths inside the home, on interior doors, or even use one as a centerpiece. Whatever the event or season, threading a ribbon in a suitable color through your wreath helps finish it off.

Step 1: Pick a Wreath Base

Select a wreath base that allows you to weave ribbon in and out. Good options include those made from dried grapevines or wire. Craft stores and the craft sections of other retailers often carry a range of wreath bases.

Step 2: Create a Wreath

If you can't find a wreath that matches your style and decor at a store, collect grapevines, evergreen branches, and other natural materials. Twist and shape them into a rough circle, then secure with twine, hot glue, or cable ties—these will be covered by decorations. It doesn't need to be a perfect circle; a rustic wreath should look natural.

Step 3: Choose the Ribbon

Purchase a length of ribbon that is three times the circumference of your wreath. You can trim any extra later. Wired ribbon is a smart pick because it can be shaped to hold its form within the wreath. Select a color or pattern that matches your wreath's theme.

Step 4: Fasten Ribbon to the Wreath

Take the end of the ribbon and insert it into the top of the wreath base from the front, pushing it through to the back. Use a few inches of floral wire to attach the end to the back of the base.

Step 5: Weave the Ribbon

Push the loose end of the ribbon through the wreath base a few inches from the top and pull it to the back. Then, from the back, reinsert the loose end an inch away from where it came out and pull it back to the front.

Step 6: Establish a Pattern

Weave the ribbon through the wreath in your chosen pattern. You can make diagonal "stitches" so more ribbon shows on the front. Continue this stitching all the way around. Leave extra ribbon on the front and scrunch it into place for a full look.

Step 7: Secure the Ribbon

Finish the weave at the top where you began. Push the loose end of the ribbon through the wreath base and secure it on the back with floral wire.

Step 8: Add Decorations

Wire other items to the wreath to fill it out, such as spring flowers or acorns and fall leaves for an autumn wreath. Attach some of these items over the scrunched ribbon areas.

Step 9: Top with a Bow

Complete the ribbon decoration with a handmade bow at the top, which will conceal the ribbon ends.