Every year, I make an autumn wreath with both fresh and dried cuttings from our garden. Last week, I took down our old hop bines from around the inglenook fireplace to replace them with fresh ones, and I thought I would use these old hops as the base for this year’s wreath.
Dressing the fireplace in our farmhouse is an annual tradition and adds rustic charm to our home, so it is lovely to have another way of using the hops again at the end of their year.
I simply twisted the dried hop bines into a circle, tied them together, and then added some extra bits from the garden like acer leaves, eucalyptus branches, hydrangea heads, and berries.
There’s something deeply satisfying about bringing a piece of nature indoors, especially during this season of transition.
As I worked on my wreath, I couldn’t help but appreciate the simplicity of the process. There was no need for synthetic glues or artificial materials. Every element came directly from our garden or our fireplace, connecting the wreath to our home and surroundings. This connection, I realised, was what made this annual tradition so special.
Once the wreath took shape and all the elements were securely in place, I added the finishing touch of a pretty satin ribbon bow. The great thing about wreaths like this is that at the end of the season, I can simply untie the bow and store it for future use. This sustainable approach not only saves resources but also adds a layer of sentimental value to the wreath as it becomes a recurring part of our autumn décor.
At the end of the season, when the wreath has fulfilled its role in welcoming autumn into our home, it can be tossed directly onto the compost heap. This zero-waste approach perfectly embodies my favourite way of decorating—100% natural, biodegradable, and eco-conscious.
As I step back to admire the finished wreath, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of satisfaction. It’s more than just a beautiful decoration; it’s a symbol of the harmonious relationship between our home and the natural world. It’s a reminder that we can celebrate the changing seasons without leaving a trail of waste behind. It’s more than just an ornament; it’s a testament to the simple joys of crafting, to the beauty of repurposing, and to the importance of treading lightly on the Earth.
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