Holiday Decorating with Natural Materials

Deck the Halls Naturally: Holiday Decorating with Natural Garland, Dried Oranges & Cranberries

The holiday season is here, and it’s time to bring warmth and cheer to our homes. If you're looking to decorate in a way that's both timeless and eco-friendly, natural garlands, dried oranges, and strung cranberries are perfect choices. These natural elements evoke nostalgia, smell incredible, and add a handmade touch to your decor.

In a world of plastic ornaments and synthetic materials, natural decorations stand out for their sustainability and charm. Not only are they biodegradable, but they also bring the outdoors inside, filling your home with the cozy essence of the season. Plus, crafting with natural materials is a fun activity for all ages, making holiday prep an enjoyable family tradition.

Here's how to create stunning decorations with these simple yet elegant materials.

Crafting a Natural Garland

Natural garlands are the backbone of holiday decor. Here's how to make your own:

Materials Needed:

• Fresh greenery (pine, cedar, eucalyptus, or a mix)

• Floral wire or twine

• Scissors or garden shears

Instructions:

1. Gather your greenery, trimming it into manageable sections.

2. Lay the pieces on a flat surface, overlapping the stems slightly.

3. Secure each piece with floral wire as you work, building the garland to your desired length.

4. For an extra festive touch, weave in dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or pinecones.

Tip: Keep your garland fresh by misting it with water every couple of days and avoiding direct sunlight.

Making natural dried orange slice garlands

Dried orange slices are a holiday favorite, bringing a pop of color and a subtle citrus aroma. Here’s how to make them:

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh oranges

• Sharp knife

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).

2. Slice oranges into ¼-inch thick rounds.

3. Arrange slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping occasionally, until dry but not burnt.

5. After the slices cool, string with twine and a large darning needle or poke holes with small scissors.

Use these slices as ornaments, garland embellishments, or even as gift toppers.

Making cranberry garlands

Cranberry garlands are such a fun, festive tradition and the ruby red berries look so beautiful amidst all the green pine boughs and other Christmas decorations. This can be a super fun seasonal holiday tradition if you have kids too. It’s so easy, and the result is magical.

Materials:

• Dark-colored string / baking string

• Tapestry needle

• Fresh cranberries (can be found in most grocery stores)

• Fiskars scissors

Steps

1. First, measure how long you would like your garland to be. Cut a piece of string to that length, plus a few inches.

2. Now take your string and thread it through your needle.

3. Next, dump your bag of cranberries into a bowl for easy access.

4. Now you can start threading the cranberries onto your string! Simply poke the needle through the middle of the cranberry and slide it all the way down. Tie a knot at the end so the berries don’t slide off the end

5. Keep sliding cranberries along the string until it’s full.

6. Remove the needle and tie a knot at the other end of the string. Clip the excess string.

This cranberry garland is such a versatile and beautiful Christmas decoration. You can use it to decorate your Christmas tree, string it along your mantlepiece, hang it along a wall, drape it around a window, and so much more. I love the little pop of color it can add to a room, too! The best part is, cranberries (as we mentioned before) have a great shelf life. They dry out after a while, but still look pretty that way. And after you’re done with them, they’re biodegradable, too!

Fall Styling Tips for Living with Seasonality

Embracing Autumn: Foraging for Fall Foliage to Style Your Home

As the leaves begin to change, nature provides us with a vibrant palette that can transform our living spaces into cozy, seasonal retreats. Foraging for fall foliage is not only a delightful way to enjoy the crisp air and stunning colors but also a sustainable method to bring the beauty of autumn indoors. Here’s how to gather, style, and appreciate the rich textures and hues of fall foliage.

The Beauty of Foraging

Foraging is a wonderful way to connect with nature and engage your senses. As you wander through parks, forests, or your own backyard, take a moment to appreciate the diversity of colors—from fiery reds and oranges to muted yellows and deep browns. The process itself can be meditative, allowing you to slow down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

Tips for Responsible Foraging

1. Know Your Environment: Familiarize yourself with local flora. Some plants may be protected or toxic, so it’s essential to research what’s safe to collect.

2. Leave No Trace: Only take what you need and avoid stripping trees or plants bare. A few leaves from each plant can ensure they continue to thrive.

3. Check for Pesticides: If you’re foraging in urban areas, be mindful of potential pesticide use. Stick to areas that are free from chemical treatments.

4. Timing is Key: The best time to forage is during the peak of fall when colors are at their most vibrant. Check local foliage reports to find the perfect moment.

What to Gather

When foraging for fall foliage, consider collecting a mix of leaves, branches, berries, and even pinecones. Here are some elements to include:

• Leaves: Maples, oaks, and varities of plum and ornamental fruit trees offer stunning colors and unique shapes.

• Branches: Twigs and branches can serve as natural decor, adding height and texture to arrangements.

• Berries: Bright red or orange berries from plants like bittersweet, holly or winterberry can add pops of color.

• Grasses: Karl Foerster, Blue Grama Grass and other grasses can lend a nice ethereal touch. Even types of tumble weed can present itself as interesting material.

• Acorns and Pinecones: These natural elements can enhance your autumn display with their earthy tones.

Styling with Fall Foliage

foraged fall branches make a lovely arrangement on their own

Once you’ve gathered your bounty, it’s time to get creative! Here are some ideas for incorporating your foraged finds into your home decor:

1. Nature-Inspired Centerpieces

Create a stunning centerpiece for your dining table using a mix of leaves, branches, and berries. Use a simple vase or even a rustic bowl to showcase your collection. Add candles for warmth and ambiance.

2. Wreaths and Garlands

Craft a beautiful wreath or garland for your front door or mantel. Use a base of twigs or wire, and attach your foliage using floral wire or twine. This not only welcomes guests but also brings the outdoors in.

3. Table Settings

Incorporate leaves and small branches into your table settings. Use them as place cards, or scatter them across the table for a rustic, woodland feel. Pair with seasonal candles and earthy dishware for a cohesive look.

4. Wall Art

Press leaves between heavy books to create natural art. Once dry, frame them or use them as part of a larger gallery wall. This adds a personal touch and serves as a reminder of your foraging adventure.

5. Seasonal Displays

Create a dedicated fall display on a shelf or side table. Combine your foliage with pumpkins, candles, and other autumnal decor for a festive vibe.

Final Thoughts

Foraging for fall foliage is not just about decorating your home; it’s about experiencing the season in a deeper, more meaningful way. As you gather and arrange, you’re creating not just decor, but memories of time spent outdoors. So, grab your basket, embrace the beauty of autumn, and let your creativity flow! Happy foraging!