How to Make Floral Swags
A floral swag as an alternative to the typical wreath. Swags are more compact in shape and therefore work well over an entryway, a window or any area that needs a smaller decoration. Either silk or dried flowers can be used, along with branches, twigs and ribbon, and you will save money by making your own compared to buying a swag ready-made. To save more money, you can dry your own garden fresh flowers.
Select branches or twigs to form the back of the swag. Eucalyptus and pussy willow branches are good choices. Decide how long you want the swag to be and cut your branches or twigs to half the length. Place a group of branches or twigs on either side so that the cut ends overlap, forming the center of the swag. Wrap floral wire tightly around the ends to hold.
- A floral swag as an alternative to the typical wreath.
- Place a group of branches or twigs on either side so that the cut ends overlap, forming the center of the swag.
Cut the flowers you will be using about 4 to 6 inches shorter than the branches. Place a group of flowers on each side of the swag with the cut ends facing toward the center. Wrap floral wire tightly around the middle to hold them in place. Cut another group of flowers about 4 inches shorter than the last ones and place on top of the swag with the cut ends facing toward the center; secure with the wire.
Finish your swag by wrapping 2-inch wide ribbon around the center of the swag twice. Cut the ribbon off and glue the loose end. Make a bow from another piece of ribbon and glue onto the front center of the swag.
- Cut the flowers you will be using about 4 to 6 inches shorter than the branches.
- Make a bow from another piece of ribbon and glue onto the front center of the swag.
To make a hanger for your swag, slide a 10-inch piece of floral wire through the wire in the back of the swag and twist it to hold. Form a loop with the loose ends of the wire, twist the ends together and tuck the ends around the loop of wire so they do not stick out.
Tip
Use raffia in place of the ribbon.
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References
Tips
- Use raffia in place of the ribbon.
Writer Bio
Amy Hannaford teaches childbirth education classes and a healthy pregnancy series in Southern Oregon. Hannaford holds an Associate of Arts degree, a certificate in medical assisting, and has been a childbirth educator and birth doula for 20 years. She has been writing articles for Demand Media since 2008.
