There’s just something magical about the scent of oranges and cinnamon during the holidays, right? I remember the first time I made a DIY dried orange Christmas wreath—it instantly turned my tiny kitchen into a winter wonderland! 🌲 Between the rustic charm and that cozy aroma, this project quickly became a yearly favorite. Whether you’re into natural Christmas decor or just love a good old-fashioned craft, this one’s for you. Grab your glue gun and let’s get festive!
Materials You’ll Need for Your Dried Orange Wreath
Okay, so here’s the deal—I used to overthink every craft supply list. Like, do I really need that tiny wooden bead or that weird spice I’ve never heard of? (Yes. Yes, you do.) When it comes to making a DIY dried orange Christmas wreath, every little detail adds to that cozy, handmade charm—especially if you’re into natural Christmas decor or want something that smells like an actual cinnamon dream.
🍊 My Go-To Supplies for This Craft
Let me walk you through everything I use—no fluff, no fillers, just stuff that works and gives you that magazine-cover-worthy Christmas wreath DIY moment.
- Dried Orange Slices: You can make ’em yourself or grab them online (they’re shockingly cheap on Etsy). Pro tip: thicker slices = more visual pop, but they take longer to dry.
- Cinnamon Sticks: You know that warm, spicy smell that screams Christmas? This is it. Tie them in bundles for texture and scent.
- Mini Grapevine Wreath Base: These are perfect if you’re going for a rustic holiday craft vibe. The small size makes them ideal for hanging on cabinet knobs or gift boxes.
- Twine or Jute String: Adds that handmade, farmhouse-style finish. Plus, it’s crazy cheap.
- Hot Glue Gun or Craft Glue: I’ve tried both, but hot glue wins for speed. Just be careful—it burns. (Ask me how I know…)
- Whole Star Anise (Optional): These add a beautiful geometric shape and smell heavenly. Great if you’re aiming for aromatic holiday decorations.
- Whole Cloves or Acorns (Optional): Texture, texture, texture. These little guys make your wreath look expensive, even if you’re on a $10 budget.
- Dried Florals or Baby’s Breath: I use these when I want to soften the look. Baby’s breath is especially cute if you’re making this as a gift.
- Wooden Bead (Optional, but adorable): Thread it through your twine loop for that extra Pinterest-y feel.
- Scissors: Because… you’re not tearing twine with your teeth, are you?
🎯 Why These Materials Matter
Look, you could just slap some oranges on a ring and call it a day. But if you want your DIY Christmas wreath to stand out—on your door and your Pinterest board—these small touches matter. Trust me, when that cinnamon-and-orange scent hits the air and your guests say “OMG, where’d you buy that?”, it’s all worth it.
Oh—and bonus? All of these are perfect if you’re into eco-friendly holiday decorations. No plastic, no waste. Just nature doing its thing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a DIY Dried Orange Christmas Wreath
I won’t lie—the first time I tried making a wreath, I hot glued my finger to the table. 😂 So learn from my chaos, not your own! This step-by-step wreath tutorial is super beginner-friendly, and honestly? It’s kind of meditative. You’re crafting with oranges, cinnamon, and twine. How relaxing does that sound?
🛠 Step 1: Prep Your Wreath Base
Grab your grapevine wreath and check it for loose twigs or rough spots. I like to give mine a little shake—if anything falls off, better now than after it’s hanging above your stove.
🍊 Step 2: Lay Out the Orange Slices
This part’s important! I used to glue as I went, but then I ended up with a weird cluster on one side. Now, I always arrange my dried orange slices first. Go for a half-moon shape or a full ring depending on your style. Overlap them slightly for that full, lush look.
🔥 Step 3: Glue the Orange Slices
Hot glue works best here. Start from the bottom of your layout and layer upwards so each slice sits slightly above the one before it. This gives it that beautiful cascading effect. Let each slice set for 15-20 seconds before moving on.
🎄 Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Bundle
Tie three cinnamon sticks together with jute twine (I like the natural brown kind—it looks so rustic). Then hot glue the bundle slightly off-center at the bottom of your wreath. It anchors the whole design and gives it that cozy holiday decor touch.
✨ Step 5: Add Aromatics & Florals (Optional, but Worth It)
Want your wreath to smell amazing and look like a Pinterest pro made it? Add a few pieces of star anise, whole cloves, or even a couple tiny acorns. These add fragrance and texture without overwhelming the look. I sometimes tuck in a sprig of baby’s breath to soften the edges.
🪢 Step 6: Make a Hanging Loop
Cut a 10-inch piece of twine and thread it through the top of the wreath. Tie a knot, and if you’re feeling fancy, slip on a wooden bead for extra charm. I swear, that one bead makes the whole thing look like you bought it at a craft fair.
🖼 Step 7: Hang & Enjoy
I hang mine on a cabinet door in the kitchen, but it also looks gorgeous above a mantel or even in the bathroom (seriously, the cinnamon smell? Amazing in a small space). You’ve just made a handmade Christmas wreath that’s festive, fragrant, and seriously photogenic.
Tips for Drying Oranges at Home
If I had a dollar for every soggy orange slice I ruined trying to make this wreath, I could buy a dozen pre-made ones on Etsy. 😅 But where’s the fun in that? Drying your own oranges is totally worth it—cheap, smells like heaven, and they look so pretty you’ll wanna dry extras for ornaments or gift toppers.
🔪 Slice Smart
Start with fresh, firm oranges. Soft ones get mushy and gross. I cut mine about 1/4 inch thick—any thinner and they’ll crisp up like chips; too thick and they’ll never fully dry. Uniform slices dry evenly, so don’t rush it.
🧻 Pat Them Dry
This is the step I used to skip—and paid the price with 5-hour oven sessions. Lay the slices on a towel and press gently with paper towels to soak up extra juice. You want ’em damp, not dripping.
🔥 Oven Drying Method
Preheat your oven to 200°F (or 90°C if you’re fancy like that). Line a baking tray with parchment paper, then lay your slices down flat—don’t stack ’em or they’ll fuse into a citrus frisbee. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, flipping every 45 minutes so both sides dry evenly.
Your kitchen will smell like a Christmas market. It’s amazing. No need for candles that day!
🌬 Pro Tip: Use a Cooling Rack
If you’ve got one, use a metal cooling rack on top of your baking sheet. It allows air to circulate underneath, which speeds things up and helps prevent the dreaded sticky bottom.
🧊 Let Them Air-Dry Overnight
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the counter overnight. I store mine in an airtight container lined with parchment until I’m ready to craft. They’ll keep for weeks if stored right—no mold, no fuss.
🧡 Bonus Use: Gift Tags & Garlands
Honestly? These look so pretty, I always make extra. Last year, I strung a bunch on twine for a garland and even tied one to a jar of homemade jam as a gift tag. People lost their minds. It’s like you’re giving someone a mini wreath!
Decorating Ideas & Display Inspiration
Okay, you’ve made your DIY dried orange Christmas wreath, and it’s a straight-up masterpiece. Now comes the fun part—where do you hang it? I used to think wreaths were just for front doors. Nope. These beauties look amazing everywhere. And when you’re working with something as rustic and cozy as this, a little creativity goes a long way.
🚪 Kitchen Cabinet Magic
My favorite spot? Right smack in the middle of a cabinet door. Seriously, it turns a boring kitchen into a Hallmark holiday set. Use a small command hook or tie it with ribbon for that extra festive vibe. If you’re doing a bunch, line them across your upper cabinets—it’s total Pinterest Christmas decor goals.
🔥 Over the Mantel
This one’s a classic. But I’ve started layering mine with eucalyptus garlands or even fairy lights for that extra wow. The mix of orange, cinnamon, and greenery is a sensory explosion. Your guests will be like, “Wait, did you buy that at a boutique?”
🎁 Use as a Gift Topper
No joke—last year I tied a mini version onto a wrapped gift with kraft paper and twine, and my friend wouldn’t even open it. Said it was “too pretty to ruin.” 😂 If you’re giving homemade jam, candles, or anything in a jar, this wreath adds major charm.
🛁 Bathroom or Entryway
This sounds random, but I hung one on a hook by the bathroom mirror once, and I swear it became my favorite spot in the house. That subtle citrus-cinnamon scent? A+ air freshener. It’s like a natural holiday diffuser, but cute.
🖼 Gallery Wall Accent
If you’re into that Scandinavian Christmas decor or minimal aesthetic, hang three or four mini wreaths on a blank wall with staggered lengths of ribbon. It adds movement and charm without being over-the-top.
💡 Quick Display Tips
- Use invisible fishing line for a “floating” effect.
- Match your ribbon or twine color to your other holiday decor.
- Stick to natural Christmas elements—wood, twine, dried flowers—for a cohesive look.
Whether you’re into cottagecore crafts or just love a festive pop of color, these wreaths are like little pieces of holiday joy you can stick anywhere.
You did it! You turned a handful of dried fruit and cinnamon sticks into a festive piece of art. Making a DIY dried orange Christmas wreath isn’t just about the final product—it’s about slowing down, crafting something with your own hands, and filling your home with cozy, nostalgic vibes. And honestly? That smell of oranges and spices still gets me every time.
It’s wild how something so simple can bring such a rich, rustic charm to your space. Whether you hung it in your kitchen, layered it above the mantel, or gave it away as a handmade gift, you’ve made something meaningful—and beautiful.
If you loved this project, I’d be so thrilled if you shared your wreath on Pinterest or tagged it on social. These little crafts have a way of bringing people together. And let’s be real: your wreath is way too cute not to show off.
Now go make another one… or ten. 🎄
