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Christmas in Australia is a whole different vibe. Forget about dreaming of a white Christmas by the fire—here, we're soaking up the summer sun, playing cricket, and hitting the beach with the fam.
And when it comes to decking the halls, ditch the usual holly and mistletoe routine. Go for something Aussie with this DIY guide to native Christmas wreaths. Move over birch garlands, holly and mistletoe, wattles and make way for bottlebrush, gumnuts, eucalyptus and banksias!
SUPPLIES:
Wreath frame (pick up from any hardware or craft store)
Florist tape/wire (if not, electrical tape or twine will do)
Selection of native flora (pick it from around your suburb or buy from the florist)
HOW-TO:
1. Separate shoots of flowers, nuts and leaves, leaving a reasonable-sized stem on each piece. Use wattles and bottlebrush flowers for colour, or perhaps small bunches of gumnuts, banksia leaves and other sturdy native foliage. Forage around your neighbourhood to make a wreath that reflects your area, or if you’re looking for something specific, visit your nearest florist for enormous proteas, waratahs or kangaroo paws.
2. Make the leaves your base. Attach the flowers and nuts secondarily, working in a clockwise direction around the wreath. For both layers, thread the stems through the wire and tape to secure in place. For heavier foliage, use the wire and twist into place. Position leaves and blooms randomly for a relaxed look, same with hanging bunches and asymmetrical placement.
3. Use ribbon or wire to affix to the door or wall. You may need to look into removable hooks if you don’t have a brass knocker or central piece to attach the wreath.