From Snowy Trails to Shop Tables: Gathering Greens for Wreaths

A Winter's Errand: The Art of Gathering Greens for Wreaths

As winter blankets the Maine woods in a layer of snow, the season for wreath making begins. The crisp, cool air carries the scent of the freash air balsam fir, and it’s during this time that the outdoorsman embark on the journey of gathering tips for their handcrafted wreaths. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating process of harvesting wreath greens (tips), dive into the behind-the-scenes work of wreath making in Maine, and provide practical knowledge for your own wreath-making endeavors.

The Importance of Maine Balsam Fir

The Maine balsam fir brush is the natural choice in Maine among wreath makers for its fragrant aroma and rich color. The boughs from this tree are not only beautiful but also durable, making them ideal for seasonal decorations. The process begins with a frost. The deep freeze signals the tree to lock in its  needles making it the perfect time to start tipping the balsam boughs. The cold temperatures are the start of the wreath season, where dedicated men and women venture into the balsam fir forests of Maine to begin the wreath making journey.

Gathering Balsam Fir: Winter in Maine - Forestry Work

Wreath making is a labor of love, especially tipping; often requiring early mornings and a keen eye for quality greens. Here are some steps to consider when harvesting wreath greens:

• Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the areas where you’ll be gathering. Different locations may yield different types of evergreen boughs for wreaths.
• Use the Right Tools: Equip yourself with a long pole with a sharp cutting head, a hauling brush pole, and sturdy gloves to make the process easier.
• Respect Nature: Always gather responsibly, ensuring you don’t over-harvest and allowing nature to replenish itself.

From Hauling Brush Through the Snow to Shop Tables

Once the greens are harvested, it’s time for the brush haul in the snow back to the workshop. This phase is crucial as it sets the stage for the creation of beautiful wreaths. Here’s what to do next:

• Sort Your Greens: Separate the balsam fir boughs into like types. Yes there are different types. Flat brush, semi round and round as well as new growth , tops and dark green and light to yellow. This will help you keep a uniform looking in final product.
• Condition the Boughs: Keep the brush cold until use and then store the finished product in a cold area.
• Gather Handmade Wreath Materials: In addition to greens, you’ll need wire, ribbon, and other embellishments to complete your wreath. See: a stunning wreath making station.

Wreath Making Tips and Techniques

Now that you have your materials ready, it's time to dive into wreath making Maine style:

• Choose a Base: A sturdy wreath frame will help support your greens. You can use single or a double wire frame. Or you can get crazy and make a number of shapes: cross, candy cane, star and many more.
• Layer Your Boughs: Start breaking the brush into pieces based on the size of your ring. Taking a few pieces layer them into a hand (because for a standard size wreath you use a group the size of your hand.) 
• Secure with Wire: Use floral wire to attach the boughs (hands) to the base tightly, layering them and offsetting them as you go around the wire ring. Shorten your hands for the ending, the pieces where the wreath starts and ends.
• Add Personal Touches: Embellish with ribbons, pine cones, or berries to create a unique design.

Behind the Scenes of Wreath Making

Every wreath tells a story, and understanding the process adds depth to your decorations. Behind the scenes, artisans often share their experiences and techniques, embracing the community aspect of wreath making. This winter, consider gathering with friends or family to create wreaths together, forging connections as you craft beautiful pieces for your homes.

Conclusion

Gathering greens for wreath making is more than just a task; it’s a celebration of the winter season and the natural beauty of Maine. Whether you’re a seasoned wreath maker or a curious beginner, following these tips will help you create stunning and fragrant decorations for your home. Embrace the journey from snowy trails to shop tables, and let the spirit of the season shine through your handcrafted wreaths.