A holiday wreath does a lot of work before the door even opens. It sets expectations. Cozy, festive, thoughtful. The good news is that making one doesn’t require expensive tools or serious crafting experience. What matters most is having a clear idea and the confidence to commit to it.

Here’s how to put together a wreath that looks intentional, not accidentally homemade:

Pick the Right Wreath Base

The base is your starting point. Grapevine wreaths offer a relaxed, natural look. Foam bases give you control and cleaner lines. Wire frames work best for fuller, classic styles. Decide on the look first, then choose the base to match.

Proportion is key. A small door can feel crowded by a large wreath, while a wide door can handle more visual weight. If possible, hold the base up to your door before buying. Your instincts will usually get it right.

Choose Greenery That Looks Fresh

Toa / Unsplash / Greenery is the backbone of your wreath. Faux pine, cedar, and fir hold their shape and last for years.

Live greenery smells great but dries out quickly indoors. If you use fresh materials, mist them often and keep them away from heat sources.

Texture is what gives a wreath depth. Combine soft greens with firmer leaves and skip flat, glossy options that can look artificial from afar. When unsure, simplify. Fewer materials used well feel more refined.

Prep Everything Before You Start

Don’t assemble piece by piece without planning. Lay everything out first. Trim greenery into smaller sections and strip excess leaves so stems sit cleanly.

Have tools ready before you begin—cutters, wire, glue—and clear enough space to rotate the wreath easily. Organization makes the process easier and the result cleaner.

Build the Green Base in Layers

Attach greenery in one direction, overlapping pieces to hide stems. Move around the wreath evenly and avoid rushing.

If the base shows through, add another layer. Fluff as you go and step back often to check coverage. A full base sets the stage for the rest.

Add a Strong Focal Point

Olly / Pexels / One main feature anchors the design—bows, pinecones, bells, or dried citrus all work. Choose one and commit to it.

Start with the main feature and lock it in first. A top placement feels classic, while positioning it at the bottom leans more contemporary. From there, build outward with balance in mind rather than perfect symmetry.

Layer in smaller details next. Odd numbers tend to look more natural, and spacing them out helps guide the eye.

If you begin to second-guess the design, pause. Adding extra pieces rarely improves it. A simpler look usually feels more confident.

Secure Everything Like a Pro

Inspect the back of your wreath by flipping it over. Secure wire ends tightly and tuck them out of sight. Reinforce loose pieces with glue and give the wreath a small shake to test strength.

It needs to endure wind and frequent door use, so fix any wobbly spots now.

Choose a strong hook or a wide ribbon for hanging—thin wire can scratch doors. Set the wreath at eye level or just above, adjusting until it looks balanced.