Holiday greetings

Expert's tip
Jen Richards of Paradiso Flowers in Kingston, Ont. says it's easiest to start indoor and outdoor wreathes and swags with ready-made models of boxwood, fir, myrtle, pine or spruce (available at floral supply stores).

To accent any outdoor versions - and any outdoor arrangements in containers - she suggests you choose dried citrus fruits, magnolia leaves, pepperberries, pomegranates, quince or rosehips (once frozen, soft fresh fruits and berries may rot and discolour), along with pinecones, and twigs such as red dogwood or curly willow, for the accents. Or you can always opt for great fakes.

Arrange your greenery and twigs, then fasten smaller accents in place using floral wire or a glue gun.

Here are 5 designs for you to try:

Circle of stars (Click here to see completed wreath.)

You need:
24-gauage florists' or hobby wire
40 to 50 large and small stars (see cookie cutter ornament instructions below)
18- to 24-in diameter grapevine, twisted-wire or evergreen wreath
1.5 m of wide wire-edge ribbon

To make:
With short lengths of 24-gauage florists' or hobby wire, wire 40 to 50 large and small stars to 18- to 24-in diameter grapevine, twisted-wire or evergreen wreath. With 1.5 m of wide wire-edge ribbon, tie double bow at top.

To age grapevine wreath: Brush on coat of flat white latex paint; let dry. With almost-dry brush, paint raised areas with a coat of flat green latex or metallic grey paint; let dry.

Cookie cutter ornaments

You need:
Sheet metal, wood or corrugated cardboard
Star cookie cutter (can use other shapes if desired)
Dimensional fabric paint
Awl or drill

To make:
On sheet metal, wood or corrugated cardboard, trace around star cookie cutter. Cut out design; smooth edges. Using dimensional fabric paint, outline each shape, then decorate as desired or write a word or message on front. Using awl or drill, amke hole(s) in each ornament for ribbon or wire hanging loop.