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Happy Crafting in the New Year

© Vickie Ferguson

Here we are, day four of the New Year and the New Millennium. I've been packing away all the colorful lights and decorations and after having all the glitter and sparkle for the last couple of weeks, I have to admit the house is a little drab. Since it's too early to bring out the sunflowers, I thought I would put together a eucalyptus wreath to brighten up the winter doldrums.

Eucalyptus comes in a variety of colors from jade green or burgundy to autumn browns and yellows. If you have ever had eucalyptus in your home, you know it generates a unique fragrance. The plant is also used as a medicinal remedy and the oil can be used in many ways, potpourri for example.

If you're still rushing and don't have the time just yet, please visit http://tulipdesigns.com where you can email them with the type of wreath you're interested in and they will give you a free price quote. They have a picture of a lovely eucalyptus and dried flower arrangement on their page. If you feel you'd like to put a wreath together yourself, please visit http://schuestersoftexas.com. I have book marked this site because they have so many wonderful flowers to choose from. If you made any of the Christmas crafts I suggested in my previous articles, you will notice I used dried cedar. These stems are not easily found and this company has plenty! When we start making our spring baskets and wreaths, I will be using dried avena in many of my designs. If you're not familiar with avena, there is a picture of this beautiful yellow flower on their page. If you're interested in seeing pictures of some of the flowers I will be using in the upcoming year, click on the different categories on their page, it is very helpful.

You can order online or buy from your local craft dealer a pre-made eucalyptus wreath. They are usually on a wire base. There is a picture at the Schuester site of a pre-made wreath if you want to get an idea of what they look like. On these wreaths, you can add whatever type of dried or silk flower you desire. The wreath that I am making is eucalyptus only. Using a 14" willow wreath, I will add stems of green eucalyptus in a spiral direction. Using the ribs of the willow wreath enables me to secure the stems of the plant between the ribs. By utilizing the ribs as much as possible, I don't have to use as much hot glue. The design of the wreath will be determined by the length and quantity of the eucalyptus stems. Placing each stem in a clockwise/spiral direction, you can make the wreath full and thick or full but thin enough so that the willow peeks through. For a hanger, I use a piece of hunter green ribbon.

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