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I have a thing for wreaths, in fact I even have a laurel wreath tattoo!
I can’t count the number I have bought or made myself. In my home, I have seasonal wreaths and ones that just compliment the room décor.
This year, instead of buying one, I decided to try and make my own from wild grapevine growing along my driveway. The vines needed trimmed back anyway and I am always looking for ways to make more and buy less! Without regular pruning, wild grape easily gets out of hand and can choke out smaller native plants as well as weigh down and break thin tree branches.
This project took 30 minutes to complete and minimal supplies, read on for the step-by-step directions!
Identifying Wild Grapevine
When it comes to foraging, it is always better to be safe than sorry. It’s important to be sure of what you are taking from the wild. I have a plant identification book that I use, as well as the PlantNet app on my phone.
Wild grapes can be found growing up and between a variety of trees in forests throughout the Eastern/ Midwestern United States. When in season, they have large, broad, toothed, green leaves and blackish purple fruit that grows in clusters.
I harvested the vines in the picture during the first week of April in Michigan, so it was too early for there to be any leaves or fruit.
Materials Needed for Making a Wild Grapevine Wreath
- Pruning shears
- Florist wire
- Wild grapevine
You will use the pruning shears to cut down the wild grapevines. The florist wire is used to get the wreath started, it will hold the vines together so you can get weaving.
Directions for Making a Wild Grapevine Wreath
- Identify wild grapevines
- Use pruning shears to cut down the desired amount of wild grapevines
- Remove any leaves and fruit from the vines
- Choose a sturdy vine to be the framework for the wreath, wind it in a circle and secure on the sides with florist wire. You can make the wreath as big or small as you wish.
- Select another vine and wind it around the framework in a clockwise direction, tuck the ends into the framework to secure, or use more florist wire if necessary.
- Continue the weaving process, where one vine ends, begin winding another around in a clockwise direction. This will help to keep the width of the wreath even.
- Continue adding vines until your wreath is the size you would like it to be
- Tuck in any loose vine ends or trim them off with your pruning shears. I like the look of the natural tendrils, but those can be tucked in or trimmed off if you want.
- Optional: Purchase a wreath hanger or make one with a loop with florist wire on the back of the wreath
- Decorate your wreath with natural or artificial flowers and enjoy!
Mother, farmer, author, and teacher by trade… She loves tending to things and watching them grow!