Fall Crafts: Leaf Wreaths Made from Recycled Materials

It's easy to make an attractive fall crafts out of materials that would ordinarily be set out to the curb. Most people have excess vines growing in their yard, garden or landscaping which must be dealt with on a yearly basis. These vines can be easily used as a basis for your fall craft project. Pumpkin vines, grapevines and bean vines in particular are useful. Cut them out of your own yard. Of if you don't have any vines, check with your friends or neighbors to see if they have something that needs trimming. You can go by the store to pick up materials if necessary, but try to look for recycled materials first. If you don't have the materials mentioned below, use readily available subsitutions. Any vine which is growing out of control will do, but be careful to avoid poison ivy.

Fall Craft Project: Grapevine Wreath

Cut two or three lengths of fresh vine. Wrap the first length carefully into a large circular wreath. Wrap any excess length in a spiral to bind your wreath. Tuck the end of the vine into a tight space in the wreath. Take the second length of vine, and insert it in a tight space within the wreath. Repeat the initial process, wrapping the vine first into a circle with the rest of the wreath, then winding any excess length into a spiral to bind it.

When the wreath has the desired thickness allow it to dry completely. The best way is to hang it indoors for a few weeks, changing its position periodically to ensure it stays round. If you decide to leave it out in the sun to dry, be sure to check the weather report daily. Bring the wreath inside immediately if the weather threatens rain.

Check around your yard and see what leaves and pinecones are lying around. Vary the color of your decorations for this fall craft project, arranging red, brown and green leaves together. Trim excess berries from bushes. See if you have any purple berries, to pick up on the "grapevine" theme. Use only natural materials, preferably ones that have fallen on their own. Use 24 gauge floral wire or hot glue to attach decorations to your fall wreath.

Fall Craft Project: Pumpkin Wreath