Cardboard Wreath Form Tutorial (+Moss)

Have you seen all the pretty mossy wreaths and monograms around?  I saw one hung over a mirror, and knew I would love to have one for my freshly refinished entry mirror.

Here's the thing.  I have an almost zero crafty budget.  I'm really trying to improvise.  Here's how I  made mine with cardboard (from an empty box), a paper bag (the kind you take your lunch in), tacky glue, decoupage medium, and a little ribbon (from gift wrapping)...plus the cheapy moss I got at wallyworld for two bucks.  I still have more moss, so this little number actually cost $1.  Woohoo!

Ready to make your own?  Gather your materials and let's make some almost free wreath forms!


Step one.  Decide on the dimensions you want for your wreath, and cut your cardboard to match.

The dimensions of my wreath form are 8.5" by 8".  The inner rectangle is 2 inches from the outer edge.  Using my trusty exacto knife, a cutting board, and my quilting ruler, I cut three layers of cardboard.  I even used pieces as needed to put together one full shape.

Step two.  Glue all the layers of cardboard together.

In between one of those layers, add your lace hanger.  When all your layers are in place, put something heavy or push them together until the glue is adhering.

Step three.  Decoupage paper to your form.

I did this mostly for cosmetics, but also to make the form stronger.  Just rip small pieces of paper bag, and following the manufacturer's instructions, cover the whole form.

After the initial application is dry, add a second layer of decoupage to hold it all together.

You're done with your form!

Step four.  Decorate!  Your imagination is the limit with this...I wanted mine to look mossy (said like that dude in "You've Got Mail").  It is messy, and a bit dirty.  I'd recommend covering your work surface with newspaper or newsprint.

A simple, cheap solution...with lovely results!

Now go raid your recycle bin for cardboard!  

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