Follow this step-by-step guide to create a stunning Day of the Dead wreath from scratch. With just a few simple materials and a bit of creativity, you can design a beautiful and meaningful decoration that celebrates this cultural tradition.
From gathering materials to adding personalized touches, follow along as we guide you through crafting a unique and meaningful decoration for your home. Let’s get started on this creative journey.
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Gather Your Materials
To begin crafting your Day of the Dead wreath, the first step is to gather all the necessary materials.
You will need:
- Cardboard
- Green Crepe paper
- White cardstock paper
- Orange cardstock paper
- Hot glue
- White glue
- Black or brown glitter
- Sharpies
- Scissors
- Cutter
- Sugar Skulls and Butterflies printable (Click for the Free Download)
The printable is available as a free download in the resource library.
To make the Marigolds flowers you will need
To make the DIY marigolds you can read the tutorial or watch the video step-by-step.
Ensure you have a spacious workspace with good lighting to make the crafting process as smooth as possible. Once you have all your materials ready, you can move on to creating the base of the wreath by following the next steps.
Create the Base of the Wreath
Grab an old cardboard box and turn it into the base for your wreath.
Start by flattening the box and sketching out two circles on it. Use a big pan to trace the outer circle, and then place a small plate in the middle for the inner circle.
Next, carefully cut out the wreath base with a cutter and scissors.
To make it sturdier, I suggest cutting out a second identical base from another piece of cardboard and gluing both layers together. This will give you a solid foundation for your Dia de Muertos wreath.
Now, let’s cover that cardboard! Take some green crepe paper and cut it into 2cm (1in.) wide strips.
Glue one end of a strip to the wreath base and start wrapping it around.
Keep going with as many strips as you need until the entire base is covered.
Once the base is all set, you can start adding your flowers and decorations!
Decorate with Day of the Dead Elements
To make the Day of the Dead wreath you will cover the base with tissue paper marigolds. I invite you to watch the video tutorial to easily craft your marigolds.
As an indication, I used around 30 flowers to cover the wreath. The quantity may vary depending of the size of the base and the flowers. You can also use fake marigolds flowers as a quicker option.
Fix the flowers on the base using the hot glue gun, layering them around the perimeter to cover the entire wreath.
After securing the flowers, download the free sugar skull template. Print them on cardstock paper. Cut the shapes out and color them with bright markers.
Strategically place and glue the decorative skulls among the blooms to add a festive Day of the Dead touch.
Once the base is fully adorned with flowers and skulls, download the free butterflies template and print on orange cardstock paper.
Cut out the shapes and, using white glue, add some glitter on the tip of the wings.
Finish off by gluing the monarch butterflies around the wreath for embellishing.
Watch How to make a Day of the Dead Wreath
Now that the wreath is complete, learn how to add personalized touches to make your wreath truly unique.
Add Personalized Touches
Consider adding personalized touches to your Day of the Dead wreath to make it truly unique and special.
Personalization can include adding small photos of loved ones who have passed or incorporating favorite colors and symbols that hold significance.
These personalized elements will make your wreath stand out and reflect your connection to the holiday.
Once you’ve added these unique touches, you’ll be ready to hang and display your finished wreath with pride.
Hang and Display Your Finished Wreath
Consider how and where you want to hang and display your finished Day of the Dead wreath.
Whether you choose to hang it on your front door for all to see, place it as a centerpiece on your dining table, or position it next to the altar, make sure it is showcased in a way that honors the tradition and craftsmanship you put into creating it.
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Take a moment to admire your handiwork and appreciate the effort you put into making a piece of art that celebrates the beauty and significance of the Day of the Dead celebration.
Display your wreath with pride, knowing that it adds a special touch to your home and serves as a beautiful reminder of the rich cultural heritage behind this Mexican tradition.
So, unleash your creativity, and let your unique masterpiece shine. Happy crafting!
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Want to remember it? Save this Day of the Dead Wreath on your favorite Pinterest Board.
