The Easiest Real Evergreen Garland Ever

I tend to be a bit of a spending fool at this time of year. There are the gifts for the children and family, yes, but then I feel inspired to make little treats for friends and neighbors, class mates and the bus stop mates. And then there are the decorations and festive tablewares. I don’t like clutter and excess but it seems like the self-control I maintain for the other part of the year evaporates at this point.

This year I’ve done better. I’m not sure if it’s because I read the tidying up book or I’m still recovering from having to move all of our things twice this year or Pipsqueak’s Godzilla tendencies have me keeping things especially minimal. I love a lot of what I see but I’ve not purchased much. However, I have this mantle now. I didn’t think I would be in the setting it but I really enjoy it.

Because of that, I’ve been drawn to all the garlands I see and there are so many beautiful ones (with appropriately beautiful prices). I really wanted an evergreen garland. Faux was fine but I had my heart set on real. It’s so rustic and wintery. At one point, I was holding a few in my hands, debating which one would be better and trying to determine if the price was worth it. I decided it wasn’t worth it so I made one myself for almost zero dollars. It’s so simple and I love it. The pine smell is wonderful

Supplies:

-evergreen shoots (I got mine from the trash bin at the store we bought our tree)
-wire
-wire cutters
-needle nose pliers

The only step here is to bind the shoots together with wire. I recommend laying the shoots out in a line, as you would like them to lay in the garland, and then using lengths of wire, bind them together. It’s all about making it the way you want it – thick or thin, streamline or bushy.

I hung it on the mantle with a few more wires and a couple of Command hooks. I am thinking of leaving it up through the new year, minus the Christmasy red.

What do you think? Do you have a mantle to dress up? What do you like to use to make your mantle lovely? I’d love any tips or tricks!

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I’m headed out! Out into the holiday world. We are hosting my family this weekend and next week, the children are out of school and then it’s Christmas and before we know it, the new year will be here (and I turn a year older!).

I am very excited about 2016 and my plans are lengthy. It’s been fun and inspiring to plot them out and I’m anxious to get them started. Before that all comes down, I need some time to unplug and lay low and refresh so I’ll be signing off until the new year.

I am so grateful for you and it’s because of you that I get to do what I love. I am thankful for your interest and kindness. I hope you and yours have a wonderful holiday and finish out this year in happiness and health.

Take care.