When it comes to wreath making, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you don’t need a lot to create something beautiful. Sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity and a few simple supplies to turn an affordable pre-made wreath into a high-end design that’s perfect for any season or occasion. Let me show you how I transformed a $12 pre-made hoop wreath from pOpshelf into something I’d confidently price at $100.
Why Start with a Pre-Made Hoop Wreath?
Pre-made wreaths have come a long way in recent years. You can find them at budget-friendly stores like Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and yes, PopShelf—a store I like to describe as a “fancy Dollar General.”
They often include basic greenery, a sturdy base, and sometimes even decorative accents like bells or berries. The key is to see the potential and add your personal touch.
For this project, I scored two pre-made wreaths for just $12 each (on sale from $20!). The greenery was lush, the berries vibrant, and the bells added a touch of charm. All it needed was a little love and some ribbons to make it pop.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Pre-made hoop wreath (I used a $12 wreath from PopShelf)
- Ribbons:
- .75″ red and gold velvet wired ribbon
- 1″ red velvet wired ribbon
- 7/8″ green glitter wired ribbon
- 2.5″ plaid wired ribbon
- 4″ red stripe wired ribbon
- Shop all our ribbon!
- Zip ties
- Scissors (for trimming and dovetailing ribbon tails)
- Optional: Extra accents like faux berries, ornaments, or glittery picks
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Fluff the Wreath
Start by fluffing out the greenery and repositioning any accents (like bells or berries) to give the wreath more dimension. This step alone can make a huge difference in the overall look.
Tip: Take a moment to secure any loose pieces with wire or glue to ensure durability, especially if the wreath will be displayed outdoors.
2. Choose Your Ribbons
Opt for traditional colors like red, green, and gold for a classic look. I used a mix of affordable ribbons and higher-end designer ribbons like D. Stevens and Ferrisilk. Mixing price points is a smart way to elevate your design without breaking the bank.
3. Create the Bow
- Cut ribbon strips for your bow loops and tails. I made 5.5-inch loops for a full, balanced bow.
- Layer the ribbons: Start with the widest ribbons (like 2.5-inch velvet) and work your way down to thinner ribbons (like 7/8-inch or 1-inch widths) for added texture.
- Use the pinch-and-twist method to keep the patterned side of the ribbon facing up.
- Secure the bow with a zip tie but don’t tighten it completely until you’ve attached it to the wreath.
Pro Tip: If you’re doing this for a craft show or a quick turnaround project, focus on efficiency—this bow took less than 10 minutes to make!
4. Attach the Bow
Position the bow where it makes the most impact (I placed mine at the bottom center). Use a zip tie or wire to attach it securely to the wreath base. Adjust and fluff the loops and tails until the bow looks full and balanced.
5. Add Extra Details (Optional)
While I kept this wreath simple with just the bow, you could add additional accents like faux berries, glittery picks, or ornaments for a more personalized touch.
Why This Design Works
This hoop wreath is proof that a little can go a long way. The pre-made wreath provided a solid foundation with high-quality greenery and bells, while the ribbon added a touch of elegance and color. It’s a perfect example of how to turn an affordable find into a boutique-worthy piece.
Pricing Your Wreath for Craft Shows
If you’re creating wreaths to sell at craft shows, pre-made bases like this are a game-changer. With just $12 for the base and a small investment in ribbons, this wreath could easily retail for $100 (or more). A quick search on Etsy shows similar wreaths priced at $130-$150!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re decorating for your own home or preparing for a craft show, pre-made wreaths offer endless possibilities. With just a bit of ribbon and creativity, you can elevate even the simplest designs into something spectacular. Don’t underestimate the power of a good pre-made wreath—it could be your secret weapon for crafting success!
Have you tried transforming a pre-made wreath? Share your tips and designs in the comments below!
