If you've ever wanted to make your own wreath but weren't sure where to begin, you're not alone. One of the most common questions new wreath makers ask is:
"What supplies do I actualy need?"
The good news is that wreath making doesn't require a huge workshop full of tools. With a few basic supplies and a little creativity, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful wreaths for your home, gifts, or even to sell.
This beginner wreath supply checklist covers the essential tools and materials every new wreath maker should have on hand.
1. Attachments & Fasteners
Before you can build a wreath, you'll need a way to secure everything together
- Chenille Stems (Pipe Cleaners)
Chenille stems are on of the most versatile wreath-making supplies. They make it easy to attach mesh, ribbon, bows, greenery, and other embellishments to your wreath frame.
- Cable Mounts
Cable mounts are adhesive-backed squares that are commonly attached to the back of wreath signs. When paired with zip ties or chenille stems, they create a secure attachment point without drilling holes in your sign.
- Zip Ties
Zip ties provide a strong and dependable way to attach signs and heavier elements to your wreath frame.
- Floral Wire
Floral wire is perfect for attaching greenery, picks, florals, and decorative accents. It's flexible, easy to work with, and nearly invisible once incorporated into your design.
Beginner Tip: Keep a variety of zip tie lengths and floral wire gauges on hand. Different projects often require different sizes.
2. Choosing Your Wreath Base
Your wreath base is the foundation of your entire design.
- 14" Wire Wreath Frame
This is the most popular wreath base for deco mesh and ribbon wreaths. It's lightweight, durable, and easy to customize.
- Work Wreath Frame (Exclusively made by Unique In The Creek, LTD.)
Made from 100% recycled plastic, wreath making boards are lightweight, durable, and designed with pre-drilled holes that make attaching materials simple and secure. Their user-friendly design makes then an excellent choice for beginners while offering endless design possibilities for experienced wreath makers.
- Grapevine Wreath
If you love farmhouse, rustic, or natural-looking wreaths, a grapevine base may be the perfect choice. These wreaths look beautiful with florals, greenery, and seasonal accents.
Beginner Tip: Start with a standard wire frame if you're learning deco mesh wreath techniques,
3. Essential Cutting Tools
Good tools make wreath making easier and more enjoyable.
- Sharp Scissors
A quality pair of scissors is essential for cutting ribbon, fabric, mesh, and other decorative materials.
- Wire Cutters
Wire cutters allow you to trim floral stems, floral wire, chenille stems, and zip ties safely and efficiently.
- Rotary Cutter
A rotary cutter makes quick work of cutting mesh and fabric while providing clean, straight edges.
Beginner Tip: Reserve one pair of scissors specifically for ribbon to keep them
4. Adhesives You'll Use Often
Adhesives help secure those finishing details that take your wreath from good to great.
- Hot Glue Gun
A hot glue gun is one of the most frequently used tools in wreath making. It's ideal for attaching florals, greenery, ribbon accents, and decorative embellishments.
- Glue Sticks
You'll go through more glue sticks than you think! Keeping extra supplies on hand prevents interruptions while crafting.
- E6000 Adhesive
For heavier items or permanent attachments, E6000 provides a strong bond that many wreath makers rely on.
Beginner Tip: Use hot glue for speed and E6000 when maximum holding power is needed.
5. Decorative Materials
This is where your creativity shines.
- Deco Mesh
Deco mesh adds volume, texture, and color to wreaths. It's available in countless colors, patterns, and finishes.
- Ribbon
Ribbon is often the star of the show. Most wreath makers us a combination of:
- 2.5" ribbon for large bows
- 1.5" ribbon for layering
- 7/8" ribbon for accents and details
- Artificial Greenery
Greenery creates fullness and gives your wreath a natural, finished appearance.
- Florals
Flowers add color, seasonal flair, and personality to your design.
- Picks and Sprays
Decorative picks and sprays add height, movement, and visual interest.
- Wreath Sign or Attachment
A sign can instantly establish the theme of your wreath and become the focal point of the design.
Beginner Tip: Start by choosing your sign first. Then select ribbon, mesh, florals, and greenery that coordinate with its colors.
6. Finishing Touches
These small details help transform your wreath into a polished finished piece.
- Sign Backing or Mounting Hardware
Proper Mounting hardware keeps your sign securely attached and professional looking.
- Jute Cord or Ribbon for Hanging
Every wreath needs a way to hang. Jute cord offers a rustic look, while ribbon can coordinate with your design.
- Bow Maker
Although optional, a bow maker can help create consistent, professional-looking bows more quickly.
Beginner Tip: Don't stress if you don't own a bow maker yet. Many beautiful bows can be made by hand.
Building Your First Wreath
When you're just getting started, it can be tempting to buy every supply you see. Instead, focus on buildinga basic toolkit first.
A simple beginner setup might include:
- Wire wreath frame
- Chenille stems
- Zip ties
- Floral wire
- Sharp scissors
- Wire cutters
- Hot glue gun & glue sticks
- Two rolls of deco mesh
- Three to fou coordinating ribbons
- Greenery or florals
- A wreath sign
With these supplies alone, you can create dozens of beautiful wreath designs.
Final Thoughts
Every experienced wreath maker started with the same basic supplies. As your skills grow, you'll naturally discover new tools, techniques, and materials that fit your style.
The most important thing isn't having every supply - it's simply getting started.
Don't forget to save or print the Beginner Wreath Supply Checklist so you'll always have a handy reference when shopping for wreath-making supplies.
Happy Crafting!
