I wasn't sure where to put this, but I wanted to share. The wreaths that decorate Colonial Williamsburg at Christmas time are stunning! They're made with such interesting materials: oranges, pomegranates, wheat, seed pods, persimmons, oyster shells, peacock feathers, pineapples, apples, etc.

Those are really nice! Maybe I'll try something like that next year. I wonder how some of those items are secured, like the oranges.

You're right! I didn't think to investigate that closely and the kids were pulling me along. I would think you wouldn't want to pierce the skin like with wire, so maybe hot glue?

I dream of somehow recreating that peacock one. I just think the colors are gorgeous.

Joanne Fabrics has all kinds of unusual decorations. I'm sure I've even seen packages of peacock feathers there. And Lotus pods. I think I'll head over there in a few days and take a look to get some ideas.

I think what I would do is pick up a plain already made wreath or swag for a starting base. We have a discount store that sells them. This year I got a very plain swag that had just 3 cones attached to it. I added a bow and called it good.

Those are wonderfully creative wreaths! The people (women, I imagine) who make them must take great pleasure in it, and I wouldn't be at all surprised if there were an element of healthy competition involved.
Wreath-making from scratch is time-consuming, but so much fun!