Different Ways to Make Wreaths: DIY Wreaths: 10 Deco Mesh Base Designs Using Dollar Tree Frames!
Share
March 5, 2025
Wreaths add a beautiful touch to any home, and making them yourself can be both fun and rewarding. Learning different techniques gives you flexibility to create custom designs for any season or style preference. There are at least 11 different methods to create wreath bases using deco mesh alone, including ruffles, curls, and woodland styles that can transform a simple 14-inch frame into stunning door decor.
You don't need to be a craft expert to make impressive wreaths. With basic materials like a wire form, deco mesh in various widths (5.5-inch, 10-inch, or 21-inch), and some floral wire, you can create designs ranging from classic rounds to spiral patterns. Whether you prefer the fullness of the poof technique or the elegant look of curls, each method produces a distinctly different finished product.
Key Takeaways
- Deco mesh wreaths can be created using multiple techniques including poofs, ruffles, and curls to achieve different looks for any season.
- You need only basic supplies like wire frames, mesh in various widths, and floral wire to get started with wreath-making.
- Different base designs serve as perfect foundations for adding embellishments like ribbons, flowers, and themed decorations.
Choosing the Right Dollar Tree Frame
Dollar Tree offers several types of wreath frames that serve as the foundation for your DIY wreath projects. Selecting the right frame is crucial for creating a wreath that matches your vision.
The most common option is the wire wreath frame, which comes in various sizes. These metal frames provide excellent structure and durability for most wreath styles.
For beginners, a standard 14-inch round wire frame is ideal. This size works well for door displays and allows plenty of space to add decorative elements without becoming too bulky.
Common Dollar Tree Wreath Frames:
- Round wire frames (most versatile)
- Heart-shaped frames (for Valentine's or wedding decor)
- Cross frames (for Easter or religious occasions)
- Foam rings (for floral designs)
You can also make your own custom frames using Dollar Tree supplies if you need a specific shape. This approach gives you more creative control over your project.
When choosing your frame, consider the weight of materials you'll be attaching. Heavier decorations like glass ornaments or ceramic pieces require sturdier wire frames.
For mesh wreaths, look for frames with multiple tiers. These work best with deco mesh techniques as they provide attachment points for securing the material.
Remember to check that your frame isn't bent or damaged before purchasing. A warped frame will be difficult to work with and may result in an uneven finished wreath.
Basic Tools and Materials Needed
To make beautiful wreaths, you need the right tools and materials. Having these basics will help you create professional-looking decorations with less frustration.
Essential Tools:
- Wire Cutters - Heavy-duty wire cutters are absolutely essential in wreath making for cutting wires and stems
- Scissors - Regular and carbon scissors for ribbon and delicate materials
- Secateurs - For cutting thicker foliage and branches
- Hot Glue Gun - For securing elements that need extra staying power
Basic Materials:
- Wreath Base/Frame - Provides structure for your design
- Floral Wire - Thin, flexible wire for attaching elements
- Moss Pins - Helps secure materials to your base
- Ribbon - Various widths for bows and decorative elements
- Deco Mesh - Popular material for colorful, full wreaths
You'll also need a door hanger to display your finished creation. Consider adding a wreath wrap for protection if storing between seasons.
For natural wreaths, gather moss and various types of foliage. For artificial wreaths, collect silk flowers, picks, and decorative elements that match your theme.
Keep your tools organized in a dedicated container. This makes the creative process smoother and helps protect your tools from damage.
Design 1: Classic Round Deco Mesh Wreath
The classic round deco mesh wreath is a versatile base for any season or holiday. You'll need a wire wreath form, 10-inch deco mesh, pipe cleaners, and scissors to get started.
Begin by securing your deco mesh to the outer ring of your wreath form with a pipe cleaner. Twist the pipe cleaner tightly to keep it in place.
Create uniform poofs by measuring about 10-12 inches of mesh. Pinch the mesh where you want to attach it and secure with another pipe cleaner to the wreath form.
Continue this process around the entire wreath, spacing your pipe cleaners evenly. The Nadia Method is popular for creating consistent poofs that maintain their shape.
You can work with just the outer ring for a simpler design or add poofs to both inner and outer rings for a fuller appearance.
Tips for Success:
- Use mesh with wire edges for better structure
- Space pipe cleaners 3-4 inches apart for balanced poofs
- Twist pipe cleaners at least 3 times for secure attachment
For a fuller wreath, consider adding a second layer of mesh in a complementary color. Attach it using the same technique but offset the poofs between your first layer attachments.
This classic design works as a beautiful standalone wreath or as a base for adding decorative elements. Many crafters use this method before adding flowers, ribbons, or seasonal ornaments.
The round deco mesh technique creates an elegant foundation that can be customized for any decor style or holiday celebration.
Design 2: Spiral Deco Mesh Wreath
The Spiral Deco Mesh Wreath creates a stunning visual effect with its twisting, dynamic design. This style has become increasingly popular for summer decor and other seasonal displays.
To create this eye-catching wreath, you'll need a wreath form, 10-inch or 21-inch deco mesh, pipe cleaners, and decorative elements of your choice.
Basic Materials:
- Wreath form (wire or foam)
- Deco mesh (10 or 21 inch width)
- Pipe cleaners
- Scissors
- Optional embellishments (flowers, ribbons, etc.)
The spiral technique involves attaching the deco mesh to your wreath form at an angle to create a twisting pattern. The Spiral Petal Wreath technique has become very trendy in recent seasonal decorations.
Start by securing one end of your deco mesh to the wreath form with a pipe cleaner. Then twist the mesh as you work around the form, attaching it at regular intervals.
You can find detailed spiral deco mesh tutorials that show step-by-step instructions with pictures. This helpful resource will guide you through the entire process.
The beauty of spiral wreaths is their versatility. You can use multiple colors of deco mesh for added dimension or stick with a single shade for a cleaner look.
This technique works well with both wide and narrow deco mesh. For a fuller appearance, try using 21-inch mesh, which allows for more dramatic spirals and volume.
Design 3: Flower-Shaped Wreath Using Deco Mesh
Flower-shaped wreaths made with deco mesh create stunning door decorations that stand out from traditional round designs. These eye-catching wreaths use the versatility of deco mesh to form beautiful petal shapes.
To start, you'll need a triangle or flower-shaped wreath board as your foundation. Unique in the Creek boards work perfectly for creating tulip bouquet wreaths or other floral designs.
Materials needed:
- 10-inch deco mesh in your chosen colors
- Wreath frame (triangle or flower-shaped)
- Pipe cleaners
- Ribbons for accents
- Floral picks or embellishments
- Wire cutters
- Hot glue gun
The process involves attaching pipe cleaners to your wreath frame first. This gives you anchor points for securing your mesh. Space them evenly around the frame about 2-3 inches apart.
Next, create deco mesh ruffles by folding the mesh into pleats or loops. Secure each ruffle to the frame using the pipe cleaners. Work your way around the frame, building the flower shape.
For a multi-colored flower effect, use different colored mesh for each "petal" section. The Nadia Method is popular for creating beautiful mesh formations.
Add ribbon loops and decorative elements between the mesh petals for extra dimension. Secure them with hot glue or by twisting into the pipe cleaners.
You can create various flower shapes including daisies, sunflowers, or tulips depending on your arrangement pattern. Each offers a unique and cheerful look for your front door.
Design 4: Color Block Deco Mesh Wreath
Color block wreaths use different colored sections of deco mesh to create a bold, eye-catching design. This style uses 10-inch deco mesh for the best results, allowing you to create distinct color sections.
To begin, gather a wire wreath form, pipe cleaners, and 2-4 different colors of deco mesh. Choose colors that complement each other or match your seasonal theme.
Materials Needed:
- Wire wreath form (14-18 inch recommended)
- 3-4 rolls of 10-inch deco mesh in different colors
- Pipe cleaners or floral wire
- Scissors
- Optional embellishments (ribbons, flowers, signs)
Step-by-Step Method:
- Attach pipe cleaners around your wreath form at regular intervals.
- Divide your wreath into sections - halves, quarters, or thirds work well.
- Start with your first color, securing the end to the wreath with a pipe cleaner.
Create poofs with your first color in its designated section using the ruffle technique. Maintain consistent poof sizes for a professional look.
When you reach the end of a section, secure your mesh and transition to the next color. Continue this process around the entire wreath form.
You can create clean color divisions or blend colors slightly at the transition points. Both approaches offer different aesthetic effects.
For added dimension, consider adding a second layer of smaller poofs between your main color blocks. This creates depth and visual interest in your design.
Finish your color block wreath with complementary ribbons, signs, or seasonal embellishments. These additions help unify your color choices and complete the theme.
Design 5: Holiday-Themed Deco Mesh Wreath
A holiday-themed deco mesh wreath brings festive cheer to any door. These colorful creations are perfect for Christmas, but can be adapted for any holiday celebration.
To begin, you'll need a wire wreath form, deco mesh in holiday colors, pipe cleaners, and festive decorations. Deco mesh comes in various colors and patterns perfect for holiday themes.
Basic Materials Needed:
- Wire wreath form (14-16 inches recommended)
- 10-inch wide deco mesh in holiday colors
- 6-inch deco mesh for accents
- Pipe cleaners or floral wire
- Holiday ornaments and picks
- Ribbons in complementary colors
Start by creating your base using one of the six basic deco mesh wreath techniques. The "poof" or "ruffle" method works wonderfully for holiday wreaths.
You can use the Nadia Method for creating a zero-fray Christmas wreath. This technique keeps your wreath looking fresh throughout the season.
For a Christmas design, combine red and green mesh with gold or silver accents. Add ornaments, berries, and ribbon to enhance the festive look.
Remember that wreaths aren't just for front doors! You can create smaller versions to add festive pops around your home.
For a designer-quality holiday wreath, layer different textures and materials. Adding battery-operated lights creates a magical glow during evening hours.
Consider incorporating traditional holiday symbols like bells, candy canes, or miniature presents for a classic look that brings joy to everyone who sees it.
Design 6: Patriotic Deco Mesh Wreath
Creating a patriotic deco mesh wreath is perfect for Fourth of July celebrations or any patriotic holiday. This eye-catching decoration uses red, white, and blue mesh to create a festive door display.
Materials You'll Need:
- Wire wreath frame
- Red, white, and blue deco mesh (6-inch or 10-inch width)
- Pipe cleaners or chenille stems
- Patriotic ribbons
- Optional decorative elements (stars, flags, etc.)
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
The key to a beautiful patriotic wreath is mastering the deco mesh technique. You can choose from several methods including the ruffle, poof, or bubble technique depending on your preferred look.
Start by attaching pipe cleaners around your wreath frame at even intervals. These will secure your mesh as you work.
For a ruffle-style patriotic wreath, gather small sections of mesh and attach them to the frame using the pipe cleaners. Alternate your red, white, and blue mesh for a festive effect. This patriotic ruffle technique creates a full, textured appearance.
You can enhance your wreath with patriotic ribbons and decorations like mini flags, stars, or other themed embellishments. Secure these with hot glue or wire them into place.
Remember to fluff your mesh regularly as you work to ensure even volume throughout your wreath. The goal is to create a balanced, full appearance with no gaps.
For inspiration, check out these top 10 patriotic wreath designs that showcase different materials and methods you might want to incorporate into your own creation.
Design 7: Seasonal Deco Mesh Wreath Ideas
Deco mesh wreaths are perfect for every season! You can easily change your door decor throughout the year using different wreath forms and methods to create distinctive seasonal designs.
For spring, try pastel colors like light green, pink, and yellow. Add silk flowers, butterflies, and small bird figurines to celebrate renewal and growth. The woodland ruffle technique works beautifully here, creating a natural-looking base.
Summer wreaths pop with bright blues, yellows, and oranges. Consider a nautical theme using the bubble method with red, white, and blue mesh. Beach elements like seashells, starfish, and miniature flip-flops make perfect accents.
For fall, incorporate rich autumnal colors—orange, brown, red, and gold. The curl technique adds wonderful texture. Accessorize with small pumpkins, artificial leaves, and acorns.
Winter and holiday wreaths shine with traditional red and green or elegant silver and gold. The poof method creates a full, festive look. Add ornaments, pinecones, and ribbon for holiday cheer.
You can create versatile "swap-out" wreaths too! Make a basic deco mesh base using 21-inch mesh and simply change small decorative elements for each season rather than crafting entirely new wreaths.
Remember to store your seasonal wreaths in large plastic bags or containers to protect them when not in use. This keeps them looking fresh for years to come!
Design 8: Minimalist Deco Mesh Wreath
For those who love clean designs, a minimalist deco mesh wreath offers elegant simplicity with maximum impact. This style focuses on using fewer materials while still creating a beautiful door decoration.
Start with a wire wreath form as your base. You can use either a standard round form or experiment with other shapes like squares or ovals.
Choose a single color of 10-inch deco mesh for your base. White, black, or a neutral tone works perfectly for the minimalist aesthetic. The goal is to create a clean look without overwhelming patterns.
Materials Needed:
- Wire wreath form (8-12 inches)
- 10-inch deco mesh in a single color
- Pipe cleaners or floral wire
- Minimal embellishments (optional)
- Scissors
- Ribbon for hanging
Attach your mesh using the Nadia Method, which creates a clean, structured look. This technique involves folding the mesh into even loops and securing them to your form.
Keep embellishments to a minimum. Consider adding just one or two statement pieces like a small monogram, a single flower, or a simple bow in a complementary color.
The beauty of minimalist design lies in its restraint. You'll find that different wreath forms and methods can create striking results even with limited materials.
For seasonal variation, simply swap out your minimal embellishments rather than redoing the entire wreath. This makes your minimalist wreath practical and versatile.
Design 9: Multi-Color Deco Mesh Wreath
Multi-color deco mesh wreaths add vibrant flair to any space. You can create these eye-catching decorations using different colored mesh ribbons for a stunning visual effect.
To start, gather your supplies: a wire wreath frame, 2-3 colors of 10-inch deco mesh, pipe cleaners, and any decorative add-ons you prefer. The Nadia Method works well for this design.
First, attach your pipe cleaners to the wreath frame, spacing them about 2-3 inches apart. This creates attachment points for your mesh.
Next, take your first color of deco mesh and create "poofs" by gathering about 10 inches of material, pinching it in the middle, and securing it to the frame with pipe cleaners. Work your way around the entire frame.
For the second layer, repeat the process with your second color mesh, placing these poofs between the first layer's poofs. This creates a fuller appearance and interesting color contrast.
If using a third color, you can add it as accent poofs on top of your base layers. This technique creates depth in your design.
Pro Tips:
- Choose colors that complement each other
- Use different textures of mesh for added interest
- Keep poofs roughly the same size for a uniform look
You can also incorporate the zero-fray technique if you want cleaner edges on your wreath.
Add embellishments like ribbons, flowers, or seasonal decorations after completing your base. These finishing touches personalize your multi-color deco mesh wreath.
Design 10: Elegant Deco Mesh Wreath With Ribbons
Making an elegant deco mesh wreath with ribbons creates a striking decoration for any season. You'll need a wire wreath form as your foundation and 10-inch deco mesh as your primary material.
Start by gathering these supplies:
- Wire wreath form (18-24 inches)
- 1-2 rolls of deco mesh (one roll makes approximately two wreaths)
- Wired decorative ribbons (2-3 patterns)
- Pipe cleaners or floral wire
- Scissors
- Optional embellishments (flowers, ornaments)
Attach your deco mesh to the wreath form using the popular Nadia Method. This technique involves creating puffs by pinching the mesh at regular intervals and securing it to the form with pipe cleaners.
Work your way around the entire wreath, maintaining consistent puff sizes. For a fuller look, add a second layer of mesh puffs between the first set you created.
Next, cut your wired ribbons into 12-inch strips. Fold each ribbon into a bow shape and attach it to the wreath using pipe cleaners. Space the ribbons evenly throughout the mesh for a balanced design.
You can customize this wreath by using seasonal colors. Try red and green for Christmas or orange and brown for fall. The beauty of this design is its versatility.
For a finished touch, add complementary embellishments between the ribbon placements. These accents will enhance the wreath's elegance without overwhelming the design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Making wreaths raises common questions about materials, techniques, and creative approaches. These FAQs address the essentials of wreath-making to help you create beautiful designs regardless of your experience level.
What materials are needed to start making a basic wreath for beginners?
To start making a basic wreath, you'll need a wreath form as your base. Grapevine, wire, or styrofoam forms are popular options for beginners.
You'll also need an assortment of greenery, whether fresh or artificial. Wire cutters, floral wire, and a hot glue gun are essential tools for securing elements to your wreath.
Decorative elements like ribbons, artificial flowers, and seasonal ornaments allow you to personalize your creation. A pair of scissors, work gloves, and a storage container set will also come in handy to protect your hands and organize your materials.
Can you provide a step-by-step guide to creating a mesh wreath?
Start by gathering your supplies: a wire wreath form, mesh ribbon (10-12 inches wide), pipe cleaners, decorative ribbon, and embellishments.
Secure the end of your mesh ribbon to the wreath form using a pipe cleaner. Create bunches or poofs by gathering 10-inch sections of mesh and attaching them to the form with pipe cleaners at regular intervals.
Continue around the entire form until it's fully covered with mesh poofs. Add a second layer of mesh in a complementary color if desired for fullness.
Finish by adding decorative ribbon and embellishments, securing them with pipe cleaners or hot glue.
What are the different styles and types of wreaths that can be crafted?
Traditional evergreen wreaths use fresh pine branches, holly, or other seasonal greens tied or wired to a form. These are especially popular during winter holidays.
Grapevine wreaths have a rustic appeal and can be decorated for any season. Their natural texture provides an excellent base for various embellishments.
Mesh wreaths offer vibrant color and fullness, making them suitable for festive occasions. Fabric wreaths using burlap, felt, or other textiles provide unique texture and style.
Floral wreaths showcase artificial or dried flowers and are perfect for spring and summer décor. Seasonal craft wreaths incorporate themed elements like seashells, pumpkins, or ornaments.
How can one make a wreath more creatively and uniquely?
Incorporate unexpected materials like feathers, dried citrus slices, or small toys to match a theme. Using vintage items or repurposed materials adds character and uniqueness to your wreath.
Play with asymmetrical designs rather than perfectly balanced arrangements. An off-center focal point or cascading element creates visual interest.
Mix textures by combining smooth ribbons with rough burlap or soft fabric with metallic accents. Consider using a non-traditional form shape like a square, heart, or even a letter instead of a circle.
Layer different materials for depth and dimension. This could mean multiple types of greenery or various ribbon widths and textures.
What are some budget-friendly substitutes for traditional wreath-making materials?
Use newspaper or magazine pages rolled into tubes as a wreath base instead of purchasing forms. Forage natural materials like pine cones, acorns, and branches from your yard or local parks.
Repurpose old clothing or fabric scraps instead of buying new ribbon. Cut them into strips and tie them around a wire hanger bent into a circle.
Visit thrift stores for artificial flowers, ribbons, and decorative elements at a fraction of retail prices. Old jewelry, buttons, and trinkets make excellent embellishments.
Cardboard boxes can be cut into wreath shapes and covered with fabric or paper for indoor wreaths. Food items like dried pasta, beans, or popcorn can be painted and glued for unique textured wreaths.
Could you explain how to create a deco mesh wreath using a 6-inch frame?
Select a 6-inch wire wreath form and 5-6 yards of 10-inch deco mesh ribbon. Cut pipe cleaners in half and attach them to the wire frame at 2-inch intervals.
Cut the mesh into 8-10 inch lengths. Fold each piece in half and pinch the middle to create a bow-tie shape.
Secure each bow-tie to the frame using the pipe cleaners, working in a clockwise direction. Place them close together for a full appearance.
Add a second layer using a contrasting color or pattern if desired. Finish with small embellishments like miniature ornaments, small silk flowers, or ribbon bows attached with the pipe cleaners or hot glue.