How to make an herb wreath

Herbs worked into wreaths can be snipped and used in cooking, home remedies and crafts. That's wall art with benefits. The tutorial below will help you make your first herb wreath.

There are six key ingredients you'll need to assemble a herb wreath:

• A base. Although some wreathes can be assembled without bases, most herbs have delicate stems and need the support of a rigid base. Bases are available in many materials, including grape vines, straw and wire. For the backyard gardener, wreaths of four to eight inches work well as door or window decor. Wreaths use quite a bit of plant material, so unless you plan to leave open sections for dramatic effect, expect to use two to three times as many herb stems on wreath assembly as you envision. To expedite the process, harvest all the herbs beforehand.

• Wire, tape or pins. The base you choose will dictate the way the herbs will be secured. For a grapevine wreath, wire and floral tape are good choices. When making a straw wreath, metal pins are effective. For a first effort, a wire and grapevine wreath combination is easy to work with.

• Tools. You will require a pair of shears to trim the herbs. If attaching herbs using wire, you'll also need wire cutters.

• Decorative finishes. Many wreaths are finished with bows or dried flowers. This isn't necessary, but it does make for a nice presentation.

• Hanging hook. Attaching a twisted wire loop to the top of the wreath will make it easier to hang.

• Fresh herbs. Some popular wreath making options include rosemary, sage, thyme, bay leaf, yarrow, oregano, and lavender.

1. Attach a hanging loop to the top of the wreath.
2. Create bunches of single or mixed herbs, making each bunch a miniature bouquet large enough to cover the width of the base upon which it will be installed. Bind the stems tightly with wire, leaving a long tail. You'll be making enough bunches to cover the base.
3. Affix the first bunch to the base using the tail wire. Trim any excess wire, tucking the end safely into the wreath.
4. Overlap the next bunch to completely cover the stem end of the bunch above it. Repeat.
5. Work your way around the wreath adding bunches. Leave an opening for a bow.
6. Allow the wreath to dry flat for 48 hours in a warm, dark location.
7. Hang as desired.