Natural Decorations Bring Back Memories

I hope you watched the segment on making a door swag for the holidays. (If not, check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAmDOQKwjFA). Ever since I can remember, I have been making wreaths - actually making wreaths. I would go out into an open field behind our house where there is lots of broom sage. I would cut it into long lengths and make the wreath frame right in the field by wiring the long bundles together and shaping it as I went along. Then I would take it home to add pinecones and a bow. My first wreath, primitive as it was, I thought was beautiful! 

Since then, I have made countless decorations using natural materials. My brother-in-law made the plywood framing for an apple fan to hang over their door. With the bright red apples and the showy pineapple in the middle, it made quite the statement. He made me a pineapple fan base the next year for my own doorway. After experimenting making swags and wreaths using natural ingredients you will understand the great satisfaction of creating your own decoration to celebrate the season!  Don't get me wrong, I like a little bling every now and then, but you can't beat the experience of gathering pinecones, cutting cedar and magnolia, and putting together a beautiful decoration to celebrate the season.

- Mark