There’s something about dried oranges that captures the cozy spirit of the season. Their warm amber tones and soft citrus scent feel both festive and timeless, a perfect reflection of nature’s beauty. This wreath combines those simple elements with a bit of greenery and a velvet ribbon for a look that’s rustic, elegant, and a little bit nostalgic.
What You’ll Need
- Dried orange slices
- Twine or jute
- Hot glue gun
-
Ribbon (I used soft green velvet)
Optional: Add sprigs of greenery or small accents of cinnamon and star anise for a festive touch.
How to Dry Oranges
The key to a beautiful wreath is well-dried slices that glow softly in the light.
Slice:
Use a mandolin at the 7mm setting, or slice by hand with a sharp knife. Aim for consistent thickness. (Be sure to use caution and the protective guard when using the mandolin)
Oranges:
Navel and Cara Cara oranges both dry beautifully, turning into a golden, almost translucent hue.
Drying methods:
Dehydrator: My favorite method for the best color. Follow your dehydrator’s settings.
Oven: Place slices on parchment and dry at a low temperature, flipping as needed. It may take a few rounds to get that perfect, non-sticky texture.
Assembling the Wreath
Once your oranges are completely dry:
- Create the base: Arrange 8 large slices in a circle with small gaps in between.
- Add the middle layer: Slightly smaller slices go on top, each one overlapping two of the bottom slices. Use hot glue underneath each piece to secure them.
- Top layer: Use the smallest slices and position them where the oranges below meet, nudging them a little toward the center to add depth.
Finishing Touches
Flip the wreath over and attach a loop of jute or twine with hot glue for hanging. Then, tie on your favorite ribbon. I used a soft green velvet to add a rich, vintage feel.
You can keep the wreath simple and natural or tuck in small branches of cedar or pine for a bit of texture.
A Little Fairy Dust
Every handmade wreath tells a story of the simple joy of creating with nature’s gifts. This dried orange slice wreath brings a bit of that magic. Hang it on your door, your mantel, or a cabinet, wherever you want a touch of handmade charm and a hint of citrus warmth.
