Easter wreaths as spring decor are all about adding a bit of life and color to our homes during this season of celebration and fresh starts.
It’s that time of the year when we bring out those round decorations, full of history and meaning, to not just dress up our doors, but to also fill our homes with vibes of new beginnings.
Over time, what started as simple green branches has turned into all sorts of designs that really show off what spring and Easter are about.
With so many options out there—different materials, colors, and themes—Easter wreaths can really stand out in any celebration, big or small.
Article Contents
The Story Behind Easter Wreaths
Easter wreaths are a tradition that’s been around for a long time.
Originally, wreaths were used as symbols of power, strength, and victory dating back to ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans, who adorned their leaders and athletes with olive or laurel wreaths.
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Over time, the symbolism of the wreath evolved, particularly within the Christian tradition, to represent the cycle of life, eternal life, and resurrection, themes central to the Easter celebration.
This idea of wreaths being a sign of something new and hopeful laid the foundation for what Easter wreaths mean today.
When Christianity came into the picture, the meaning of these wreaths deepened. They began to symbolize the resurrection of Christ, which is a key part of Easter.
The round shape of the wreath stands for eternal life.
The circular shape of the wreath, with no beginning and no end, symbolizes eternity and the unending cycle of life.
This ties into the Easter story of resurrection and rebirth, making wreaths a fitting emblem for the season.
The greenery is stands for growth and new beginnings.
The use of greenery and flowers in Easter wreaths further emphasizes themes of new life and renewal, as spring brings the earth back to life after winter.
These meanings has stuck around and is why we still love Easter wreaths today.
A classic twig wreath.
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7 Types of Wreath Greenery and the Ancient meaning behind
Ancient wreaths were primarily made from locally available plants and held specific symbolic meanings tied to their culture and history.
1.
Olive Branches
In ancient Greece and Rome, olive branches were a symbol of peace and victory, often used in wreaths.
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2.
Laurel Leaves
Popular in ancient Rome and Greece, laurel wreaths symbolized triumph and were associated with rulers and athletes.
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3.
Ivy
Known for its hardiness and evergreen nature, ivy was used in various cultures for wreaths, symbolizing eternal life or strong connections.
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4.
Oak Leaves
In some cultures, oak was considered sacred, and its leaves symbolized strength and endurance.
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5.
Boxwood
Boxwood stand for victory, status, and eternal life, due to their evergreen nature.
A durable, evergreen shrub, that is easy to shape and maintain, making it a popular choice for wreaths today.
6.
Myrtle
Associated with love and immortality in various ancient traditions.
Myrtle leaves were often used in wedding and ceremonial wreaths.
7.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus, native to Australia and surrounding areas, was not used in ancient wreath-making traditions, primarily because it was unknown to the ancient civilizations traditionally engaged in wreath-making.
I modern times it has become popular in wreath designs for its aesthetic appeal, lovely scent.
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Easter Wrealths as Spring Decor today
Nowadays, Easter wreaths are a big part of spring decorations.
They’re not just about history; they’re also about making our homes look nice.
Lovely Easter Wreath with colorful eggs & flowers.
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You can see them on front doors, windows, and walls, bringing in that spring vibe and Easter happiness.
Whether it’s a simple wreath with natural stuff like twigs and leaves or something fancier with Easter eggs and bunnies, there’s a style for everyone.
Cute Easter Wreath shaped as a Bunny.
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Modern wreath decor and the symbolism behind
Many of the items commonly included in modern Easter wreaths carry symbolic meanings, adding layers of tradition and storytelling to the visual appeal.
Easter Eggs
Easter eggs are perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Easter.
They represent new life and resurrection, tying back to the essence of the Easter celebration.
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Bunnies
The Easter bunny is a symbol of fertility and new life, rooted in ancient pre-Christian fertility lore.
The bunny, known for its prolific nature, represents the lively, vibrant spirit of the spring season.
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Ribbons
Ribbons are often used in Easter wreaths for their aesthetic appeal, but they also have symbolic meanings.
They can represent unity and the bond of community or faith, tying together the various elements of the wreath into a cohesive whole.
The use of specific colors can add further symbolism, such as purple for royalty, or yellow and green for the vitality of spring.
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Small Bird Nests
Bird nests in Easter wreaths symbolize home, comfort, and care.
They also represent spring and the nurturing of new life, as birds hatch their eggs to welcome new life in the season.
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Crosses
Often included in Easter wreaths as a direct symbol of the Christian significance of the holiday, representing the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
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Butterflies
Symbolize transformation and resurrection, mirroring the Easter message of new life and hope.
Fruits & Berries
Fruits and berries symbolizes abundance and the fertility of the earth, adding color and a sense of bounty to wreaths.
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These elements, ancient symbolic or purely decorative, enrich the tradition of Easter wreaths, making them not just beautiful seasonal decorations but also bearers of stories and meanings that reflect the themes of Easter and spring renewal.
This shift from an ancient symbol to a beloved decoration shows how Easter wreaths keep the idea of new beginnings and hope alive.
Hanging a wreath on your door isn’t just about making your place look good.
It’s also about keeping up a tradition that’s all about welcoming the new season and the good things it brings.
Brigthen up your front door with this lovely Spring Flower Wreath.
DIY Easter Wreaths
Benefits of Creating Your Own Spring Decor
People have been making their own Easter wreaths for years, and this tradition continues for several good reasons.
Personal touch
First off, making your own wreath lets you put a personal touch on your holiday decor.
You can pick exactly the colors, materials, and themes that match your taste or the vibe you’re going for in your home.
Whether you’re into the bright colors of spring flowers or you love the look of pastel Easter eggs, making your own wreath means you get exactly what you want.
Enjoy the Pleasure of Achievement
Another big reason is the sense of accomplishment and creativity it brings.
There’s something special about looking at a beautiful piece of decor and knowing you made it yourself.
It’s also a fun, creative project that can help reduce stress. Crafting has been shown to relax the mind and provide a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Creating Memories Together
Moreover, making Easter wreaths can be a great way to spend time with family or friends.
It’s an activity that people of all ages can get involved in, from kids to grandparents. This can create lasting memories and traditions that your family looks forward to every year.
Economic benefits
Lastly, DIY wreaths can be more cost-effective.
Buying all the supplies might seem like it adds up, but when you compare it to the price of pre-made wreaths, especially the more elaborate ones, you can often save money by making your own.
So, when you decide to craft your own Easter wreaths, don’t just think of it as a piece of decor. Think of it
- as a way of expressing your personal style,
- enjoying a creative outlet,
- making memories with loved ones,
- and sometimes even saving some money in the process.
Eco-friendly & Economic Easter Wreath Supplies
Repurposing materials from around the house or garden for Easter wreath decorations is both eco-friendly and economic.
From the garden
- Twigs and Branches: Collect fallen twigs and branches to form the base of your wreath or to add a rustic touch.
- Dried Flowers: Save and dry flowers from your garden to incorporate into your wreath for a natural, colorful element.
- Pine Cones: Gather pine cones to paint or leave natural for texture.
- Leaves: Press leaves and use them for a green, lush look. Evergreen sprigs and ferns also add a nice touch.
- Seeds and Nuts: Use seeds, acorns, or nuts for a unique, textured appeal.
From the House
- Fabric Scraps: Cut old clothes or linens into strips to wrap around the wreath form or to create bows and flowers.
- Old Books or Newspapers: Create paper flowers or decoupage pieces of your wreath with pages from outdated books or newspapers.
- Broken Jewelry: Use beads, pendants, or earrings to add sparkle and interest to your wreath.
- Used Ribbon or String: Reuse ribbon from gift wrapping or use string from old crafts for hanging elements or adding bows.
- Cardboard: Cut shapes from cardboard boxes (e.g., eggs, bunnies) to decorate and attach to your wreath.
- Egg Shells: Cleaned out egg shells can be painted and used as delicate decorations.
- Bottle Caps: Flatten and paint bottle caps for a quirky, colorful addition.
- Kitchen Utensils: Repurpose old or mismatched spoons and forks, especially those with interesting designs, by painting them or bending into shapes.
Handy DIY Easter Wreath Supplies
Looking for some fun and easy ways to make your Easter wreath stand out?
From classic twigs that bring a touch of nature to your door, to bright flowers that add a pop of color, we’ll show you some handy supplies to use.
Whether you’re a crafting pro or just starting, our tips will help you create a beautiful Easter wreath that brings a little bit of spring right to your home.
Wreath Base
Start with a sturdy base for your wreath.
This can be a simple grapevine wreath, a foam ring, or a wire frame depending on the look and materials you plan to use.
A classic twig wreath as a base for your design.
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Grapevine wreaths offer a natural, rustic look and are great for tucking in flowers and greenery, while foam and wire frames are versatile for a variety of designs.
Greenery and Flowers
Choose a mix of greenery and flowers to create texture and color.
Eucalyptus, ferns, or boxwood make excellent green bases, while spring flowers like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths add vibrant colors.
Faux Flowers in various colors.
Faux greenery and flowers can be a great alternative if you want your wreath to last longer.
Check your backyard for free, fresh grenery and flowers, or aim for faux supplies if want to enjoy your wreath in seasons to come.
Set with 8 Kinds of Faux Greenery Branches.
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Decorative Elements
To give your wreath an Easter theme, incorporate decorative elements such as Easter eggs, bunnies, ribbons, or small bird nests.
These can be bought at craft stores or you can make your own for a more personalized touch.
Floral Wire and Wire Cutters
Floral wire is essential for attaching greenery, flowers, and decorative elements securely to your wreath base.
Wire cutters will help you trim the wire and cut stems to the right length.
Hot Glue Gun
A hot glue gun can be incredibly useful for attaching items more securely or for materials that are difficult to tie with wire.
It’s especially handy for adding decorative elements that don’t have a natural way to attach to the wreath base.
With these five items, you’ll be well-equipped to create a unique and festive Easter wreath that reflects your personal style and the joy of the season.
Ready to get started crafting your own easter wreaths?
Here are more helpful resources:
- The House That Lars Built – Rainbow Easter Egg Wreath
- The Craft Patch Blog – Farmhouse Style DIY Spring Wreath
- Flamingo Toes – Spring Bunny Pom Pom Wreath
- The 36th Avenue – Wreath Turtorial Easter Decor
Or head over to Pinterest to find our favourite DIY Wreath Inspiration.
Taking care of your wreaths
For Fresh Wreaths
- Keep It Cool: Fresh wreaths last longer in cooler temperatures. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, such as heaters or kitchen appliances.
- Mist Regularly: Lightly misting your wreath with water every couple of days can help keep it looking vibrant, especially if it’s made from live plants that can tolerate moisture.
- Trim Wisely: If you notice any wilted or brown parts, carefully trim these off to keep the wreath looking fresh.
- Use Floral Spray: A floral preservative spray can provide additional moisture and nutrients, helping to extend the life of your wreath.
For Artificial Wreaths
- Dust Off: Regularly dust your wreath with a soft cloth or use compressed air to blow off any accumulated dust.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Though artificial, colors can still fade if exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, so try to hang it in a shaded area.
- Gentle Cleaning: For more thorough cleaning, lightly dampen a cloth with water and a mild cleaner. Gently wipe down the wreath to remove any dirt or stains.
Storing Your Wreath
- Proper Support: To maintain its shape, store your wreath on a wreath hanger or in a wreath storage box. Avoid placing heavy items on top of it.
- Cool, Dry Place: Store your wreath in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humidity to prevent fading and damage.
- Cover It Up:
- For artificial wreaths, consider wrapping them in a plastic bag or use wreath storage boxes to keep dust and pests away.
- For fresh wreaths that you wish to dry and preserve, ensure they are completely dry before storing in a breathable fabric bag.
- Labeling: Label your storage box or bag with the type of wreath and the year, which can help with organization and future decorations planning.
By following these care and storage tips, you can enjoy your beautiful Easter wreaths for many seasons to come.