Any time our real estate agents consult with homeowners about listing their Boise homes for sale, they always recommend dressing up the porch to improve the curb appeal. Some potted plants, a welcome mat, and a simple wreath can make a major difference. 

Even if you're not thinking about selling your home, decorating your porch for the holidays is a great idea! If you want to make your decor even more special, consider making your own holiday wreath this year. 

It's easier than you might think! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you'll have a beautiful wreath in no time. You may even decide to make extras and give them away to family and friends. 

1. Gather Your Supplies
   It's a great idea to keep all of your decorating supplies together in one place so you can easily see all of your options and tap into your creativity. You also don't want to get part-way through your project and find that you're missing something important. Prevent this by gathering all of your supplies before you start. For this project, you'll need:

• Round metal wreath frame
• Floral wire
• Pruning cutters
• Wire cutters
• Evergreen tree cuttings 
• Pinecones
• Holly berry or holly branches (real or faux)
• Holiday ribbon
• Gold spray paint
• Holiday floral decorations (optional)

2. Spray Paint Some Pieces 
   To give your wreath some dimension, you may want to choose a few clippings and berries and paint them gold (or another color). Do this ahead of time and make sure the pieces are dehydrated before you add them to your wreath. 

3. Attach Your Branch Cuttings
   If necessary, cut your branches into smaller, workable pieces (approximately six to eight inches). Then, choose a small bundle of greenery and lay it on top of the wreath frame. Use the floral wire to attach the stems to the frame, wrapping it around tightly three times. Do not cut the wire. Continue adding bundles, overlapping each one half-way over the previous one, and wrapping the wire around the stems. (Take a look at this helpful video for more detailed instructions.) Keep repeating this process until you get back to your starting point. Tuck the wire into the underside of the frame and tie it off. Finally, cut the wire, leaving a few extra inches on the end. 

4. Add the Cones and Berries
   Once your frame is completely covered with the branches, it's time to add some cones and berries. Use the wire to attach them to the frame, making sure to do it carefully so the wire doesn't show. 

5. Trim Your Wreath
   Now, you'll want to trim the outside edge of your wreath so it takes on a rounded shape. It doesn't have to be perfect, and you don't want to overdo it. Trimming is often easier if you hang the wreath up and look at it from a distance as you work. 

6. Add Some More Decor
   You're almost done! The last step is to add the finishing touches. This may include beads, ribbon, and other types of holiday decorations. There's no right or wrong way to do this, and you can keep making tweaks until you love it.

If you're planning to hang the wreath on your front door, you may need to create a wire loop and attach it to the back of your wreath. That's it! Hang your wreath up and enjoy it. 

Are you thinking about buying or selling a home before the holidays? We're here to help! Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started.