There’s something timeless about a wreath. A circle of natural beauty, it symbolises the changing seasons, the turning of the year, and the idea of welcome. At Yorkshire Wreaths, we take that tradition and add our own touch of family, craft, and countryside.
But what really goes into making one of our wreaths? Today, we’d love to take you behind the scenes and show you how each handmade piece comes to life.
Step 1: Inspiration from Nature
Every wreath starts with a walk. The hedgerows, woodlands, and meadows of Yorkshire are bursting with inspiration. Moss, twigs, pinecones, berries, seed heads, dried grasses – nature provides us with everything we need to make each wreath unique.
We don’t mass-produce or buy in factory-made bases. Instead, we use what the land offers, working with the natural textures and colours of each season. That’s why no two Yorkshire Wreaths are ever the same – and why each one has its own story.
Step 2: Building the Base
A good wreath begins with a sturdy base. We use moss and wire to create a strong, natural foundation that will hold its shape. This moss base isn’t just practical – it also keeps foliage fresh for longer and gives the wreath its soft, rustic look.
For dried wreaths, the base acts as a frame to secure delicate flowers and seed pods, keeping everything neat and balanced. For fresh wreaths, the moss helps retain moisture, meaning the greenery will stay vibrant for weeks.
Step 3: Layering Greenery
Once the base is ready, the fun begins! We start by layering foliage – eucalyptus, fir, ivy, or whatever seasonal greenery we’re working with. This gives each wreath its fullness and shape. We like to mix textures, combining soft leaves with sharper needles or trailing vines for movement.
Every sprig is added by hand. It takes time, but it’s worth it. The result is a wreath that feels alive, natural, and not too “perfect”. After all, nature isn’t uniform, and we want each wreath to capture that wild beauty.
Step 4: Adding the Details
Here’s where the personality of each wreath comes in. Pinecones, dried orange slices, seed heads, berries, dried flowers, these finishing touches bring colour and character.
Sometimes we go bold with bright berries and vibrant textures, while other times we keep things understated with soft tones and rustic materials. It all depends on the season and the story we want the wreath to tell.
Step 5: The Finishing Touch
Finally, each wreath is checked, adjusted, and tied securely. We might add a loop for hanging or suggest ways to style it as a table centrepiece. Then, it’s carefully packaged to arrive safely at your door.
Why Handmade Matters
In a world of mass-produced decorations, choosing a handmade wreath makes a difference. Each Yorkshire Wreath is made slowly, thoughtfully, and with care. You’re not just buying something pretty for your door, you’re bringing a piece of the Yorkshire countryside into your home, made by a family who loves what they do.
And that’s what makes our wreaths special.