If you haven’t decorated for the upcoming holiday, this week is a great time to start! This craft is one that your preteens and older will appreciate making and seeing on display in your home.
Your kids will design their own autumn-inspired wreaths using a grapevine or foam base. They’ll decorate their base with faux leaves, pinecones, ribbons, and other seasonal accents to bring their wreath to life.
Why It’s Perfect for Preteens +
- Skill level: Preteens have the fine motor skills to handle hot glue (with supervision), arrange materials, and make design choices.
- Independence: This project allows for personal expression while still being achievable without frustration.
- Creativity boost: Wreath-making encourages them to experiment with color, texture, and balance.
- Encourages gratitude and seasonal awareness by connecting them to autumn traditions.
- Builds confidence as they see their design come to life.
- Supports fine motor practice through cutting, gluing, and arranging.
- Fosters family connection when wreaths are displayed in shared spaces.
- Promotes mindfulness as they focus on arranging natural elements in a calming, repetitive way.
Once your wreaths are completed, you can hang it in a variety of places to add warmth and seasonal charm. Place it on the front door creates a welcoming touch for guests, or while hang it in a bedroom to add a personal accent.
Another great option is above the mantel or fireplace. The wreath becomes a cozy focal point for family gatherings. You can even lay the wreath flat on a table with a candle in the center to transform it into a festive centerpiece.
Let’s Get Started
Supplies
- Grapevine or foam wreath base (10–12 inches)
- Faux autumn leaves (fabric or paper)
- Pinecones, acorns, or small gourds (real or artificial)
- Ribbon (fall colors like orange, gold, burgundy, or burlap)
- Hot glue gun or craft glue
- Scissors
- Optional: glitter, felt shapes, or mini pumpkins.
Directions
- Prepare the base: Place the wreath form on a flat surface.
- Arrange leaves: Layer faux leaves around the wreath, overlapping for fullness.
- Glue accents: Attach pinecones, acorns, or gourds with hot glue.
- Add ribbon: Tie a bow or wrap ribbon around sections of the wreath for color contrast.
- Personalize: Add glitter, felt shapes, or mini pumpkins for extra flair.
- Finish: Check for loose pieces, then attach a loop of ribbon to hang.
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