Nature Walk Wreath

As the leaves change color and the days get longer and colder, the wonder of nature becomes more and more inviting. Taking a leisurely stroll in the crisp fall air can be just what the doctor ordered to help relax and refresh the entire family after a hectic week of work, school and activities.

As you enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, why not collect some of the gifts that nature has left behind and help your children create a beautiful fall wreath for your home? Pick up leaves, nuts, pinecones and whatever other local fall treasures that you can find.

Once you return home, placing any pinecones, nuts or other items that could carry bugs or eggs into the oven for an hour or so at around 200 degrees is a good idea, particularly if you are planning to hang your wreath inside. Just be sure to turn them regularly to keep anything from burning. You can also spray all of the goodies that you have collected with varnish, to help preserve the color and to add a little shine.

For your wreath base, you can go simple and just cut out a cardboard ring, about 3 to 4 inches wide or you can purchase a wreath made of hay or straw. While the size is completely up to you, a 12-inch wreath is a good choice for either indoor or outdoor use.

Arrange your leaves on the wreath first, securing them in place with hot glue. For safety reasons, use a low-temp glue gun and always supervise children.

Next, you can add your pinecones, nuts, berries or whatever else you collected to decorate your wreath. You might want to flatten the back of irregularly shaped objects, like pinecones, tomake attaching them easier.

After all of your nature walk goodies have been added to the wreath, you can have fun embellishing your creation with glitter, buttons, beads or ribbon.

Hang your completed wreath on the door, to help welcome guests throughout the beautiful days of fall.

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