Making of Wreaths 2
I prefer these privet frames to those made of wire. The thread with which the greens are tied does not slip on the canes as it tends to on wire.
Wire frames may be purchased, if raw materials for making your frames are not available. A wire circle can be formed by rounding out an ordinary metal coat hanger. More ambitious craftsmen make wire frames from 8-foot lengths of No. 14 iron wire; the result is a hoop 10 to 12 inches in diameter. This wire is not too hard to handle without tools. A heavier wire, perhaps No. 9, makes a sturdy single-circle hoop if the ends are neatly hooked together. This will require pliers. (Drawing 1)
Sometimes frames are packed with moss, into which the stems of evergreens are inserted or evergreens may be wired to toothpicks and thrust into the moss. I find this type of frame cumbersome and not suitable for hanging on a door. If you do use one, take care that the colored paper wrapped around the moss does not rub off on the door or other background, as it may if the moss is damp.
When frames are ready, evergreens should be cut and prepared. It requires about four pounds of greens td fashion an average wreath. Mixed greens are recommended. It is easier to make a good circle with varied materials, and more effective too. Another advantage is that if some materials dry out there will remain enough green and fresh ones. A good combination consists of arborvitae, fir, cedar and white pine. Any broadleaf ever- green, not too large, can be worked in. The broad-leaved evergreens are excellent for displaying the beauty of fruits in a wreath.
A coat of white shellac prevents the shriveling of greens. Shellac may be applied with brush or spray, and first to the under side of the leaf. A coat on the stem holds moisture in and helps keep leaves fresh.
The beginner will be wise to prepare evergreens in advance of actual fastening to the frame, grouping them in bunches convenient for handling. The bunches should be six inches or more in length, depending on the size of the hoop. Every third bunch on the frame may include a piece of broadleaf evergreen, such as leucothoe, box, ivy or galax.
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