It’s the most wonderful time of year, and while many of us are busy inside with tree trimming and homemade ornaments, the front door deserves some attention too. In this post I’ll show you how to create a rustic Christmas wreath using unexpected, repurposed materials for a warm, natural look that suits any farmhouse or cottage-style entry.
I’m also joining a Christmas blog hop with some talented friends—check the list near the end of this post to see their festive ideas.
Last year I experimented with wreaths made from picture frames; this year I wanted a simpler, more rustic approach. Instead of typical ornaments, I reached for ordinary items—pine cones, old necklace beads, and even classic wooden clothespins—to build a wreath with earthy texture and charm.
What I used:
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- faux wreath frame with flexible branches
- pine cones
- traditional wooden clothespins
- twine-covered balls
- pieces of old necklaces with rustic beads (stone or wooden)
- sprigs of faux berries
- two bells (optional)
- twine
- glue (hot glue or strong craft glue)
How to make the wreath:
Start by arranging the larger elements first. I glued pine cones around the faux wreath frame to create a natural base; regular craft glue worked fine, though a hot glue gun will speed the process and secure heavier items. Space the pine cones evenly so the wreath keeps a balanced, organic shape.
While tidying the garage I discovered a handful of classic wooden clothespins. Their simple, rustic look appealed to me, so I clipped them around the wreath to visually divide the circle into six sections—almost like slicing a pie. This gave the wreath structure and a quirky, handmade feel.
I also tucked the twine-covered balls between groups of pine cones and clothespins for soft texture and muted color. These lightweight decorations add a cozy, cottage-style accent without overpowering the natural elements.
Next, add a faux berry sprig or two for seasonal color. The berries I used are a deep, natural red that contrasts nicely with the browns and twines, creating a festive but understated look.
To add personal history and texture, I repurposed beads from broken necklaces—stone and wooden beads matched the wreath’s earthy palette perfectly. I wired or glued small clusters of beads in several areas to create focal points. This is a simple upcycling trick that adds uniqueness and reduces waste.
Finally, I tried adding two bells to the center as a finishing touch. They looked lovely and rang softly, but when I hung the wreath on the front door with the outer storm door closed, the bells prevented the door from closing. I swapped them for a lightweight “Merry Christmas” sign with a touch of glitter, which solved the problem and kept the entryway functional.
Here’s the finished rustic wreath—warm, textured, and full of repurposed charm. I photographed it in morning light on the front door; the natural materials and muted colors look especially inviting against wood or painted doors.
If you choose to include bells, consider mounting them so they sit flat against the wreath or placing them elsewhere on your porch to avoid clearance issues. Either option—bells or a lightweight sign—gives the wreath personality.
Which version do you prefer—bells or lettering? Either way, this DIY rustic Christmas wreath is an affordable, eco-friendly way to welcome guests during the holidays.
Additional Christmas wreath ideas
If you’d like more inspiration, explore other wreath styles—coastal, Nordic pine, or garlands made from fresh rosemary—for different seasonal moods and materials. Mixing textures like wood, twine, natural greenery, and vintage elements is a simple way to craft a wreath that reflects your home.
More holiday projects from friends
Below are links to creative holiday projects from fellow bloggers and crafters—fresh garlands, advent trees, simple centerpieces, and more. Visit their sites for step-by-step instructions and additional ideas to expand your holiday decorating.
Sam @ Raggedy Bits | Janine @ Happy Happy Nester
Leanna @ Faeries and Fauna Crafts | Jodie and Julie @ The Design Twins
Katrin @ Kreativ K | Ashley @ Modern Glam
Sarah @ Creative Ramblings | Kellie @ Gratefully Vintage
Amanda @ Life on the Bay Bush | Tara @ Lehman Lane
Enjoy crafting your own rustic Christmas wreath—and happy holidays!