Wreaths

Barb - what is really great is to have wreaths that suit the season - so 4 per year. Considering how inexpensive the bases are (grapevine and others), it wouldn't be too expensive to build up a little collection.

My suggestion is to take an hour and go to the bookstore. There are so many "how to" books solely on wreaths to choose from. Grab several and leaf through them. You'll get plenty of ideas (and many will be easy enough to replicate without having to buy the book), but you might want to invest in your favorite.

I like to visit the craft stores just after a particular season or holiday to see what is marked down 50% (or more!). I then have the materials ready for the next time the occasion comes around. For instance, I was able to buy a good-sized wheat bundle for about $4 just after Halloween. And, beaded fruits were only $2 ea. after Christmas. Spring silk flowers go on sale after Easter, and so on. I also look for the wired ribbon when it goes on sale for 1/2 price.

My Christmas wreath this year was a hit - I found some little childrens' ice skates at a yard sale for $1.50 a few years ago, and "antiqued" them and tied them as the focal point on the wreath. Keep your eyes open at yard sales, too.

There are probably lots of sites online with instructions and ideas for wreaths, too. And, I'm sure the crafters that post here will have some great ideas for you, too.

Hope this helps out.