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Wednesday, February 11, 2015

DIY Magnolia Heart Wreath

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DIY Magnolia Heart Wreath

With Valentine's Day around the corner, I wanted to add some subtle decorations around my house that could take me into Valentine's Day and stay for a while longer. This wreath allows for just that. The heart is a nice nod to Valentine's Day without being too "themey", and allowing it to continue its appeal into spring. 

For this project, you will need:
  • Dried Magnolia Leaves (I plucked mine from our backyard tree, but you can purchase them online)
  • Heart Shaped Wreath Wire Frame (I purchased mine from Hobby Lobby)
  • Hot Glue Gun with Glue
  • Paint Brush (optional)
  • Gold Paint (optional)
  • Wet Towel
I originally used the magnolia leaves as decoration for my son's woodland-themed first birthday party. The leaves air dried in my house for a couple of weeks, and I decided to re-purpose them for this project. I removed the leaves from their branches with gardening scissors so I could get a nice, clean cut. Then I cleaned them with a wet towel, and allowed them to dry completely. 

For my next step, I decided on the placement of the leaves. I knew I wanted to feature the rich green color, and also highlight the beautiful, velvet texture of the backside of the leaf. So I decided to alternate sides. I also wanted to follow the natural curve of the leaf with the heart. After I confirmed the placement, I glued each leaf to the wire base of the wreath frame and glued each leaf to one another for added stability. 

Hot glue gun

Magnolia Leaf

Magnolia Leaf Heart Wreath

Once I completed one side of the heart, I copied the same direction on the other side. You can stop here, but I decided to add a little glamour! I took the gold paint and highlighted the veins and velvety texture of the backside of the leaves by brushing the gold paint onto the back of the leaf. I love how it brought some great detail and flair to the project. 

Gold Magnolia Leaf

Gold Magnolia Leaf

I knew I wanted this wreath to hang on the door of my son's room, so I went with 12 inches for the wreath frame. But you can use a wreath frame that is larger for the outside of your house. 

After purchasing the products and drying the leaves, this project took me a little over an hour to complete. I hope you enjoy this project and add your own little twist that makes your own heart happy!

DIY Gold Magnolia Leaf Wreath
DIY Magnolia Heart Wreath

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