Christmas begins long before the tree is dressed or the table is laid. Often, it starts with sleeves rolled up, moss between your fingertips and the scent of winter greenery gathering in the air. Moss wreaths carry a certain poetry; sculptural, earthy and effortlessly elegant.
With her signature “nature-first” style, Elle Winsor Grime of The Artful Events Company guides us through crafting one of the season’s most quietly beautiful decorations.
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What you will need
- Straw wreath (or a pre-mossed version from your florist)
- Mossing pins (German pins)
- Wire
- Cable tie
- Cushion moss
- Ribbons or natural decorations to finish
Step 1 - set the foundation
Begin with a moss-covered straw wreath. Elle recommends this base because the fresh cushion moss settles beautifully into the existing layer, slowly rooting together to create that soft, cloud-like texture. Next, give the wreath a gentle soak.
Step 2 - create a secure hanging loop
Fasten a cable tie around the top to form a strong, discreet hanging point. Moss wreaths carry a lovely weight, so this ensures they sit proudly on your door throughout the season.
Step 3 - start layering the moss
Take a small handful of moss and pin it to the wreath using mossing pins. If you’re crafting without them, folded garden wire works perfectly. Press each pin into the base, keeping the moss light and rounded.
Step 4 - build the form
Keep adding moss piece by piece, turning the wreath as you go to maintain a smooth, circular silhouette. Rolling each clump of moss in your hands beforehand helps create that velvety, forest-floor finish.
Step 5 - add your seasonal flourishes
You may fall in love with the simplicity of the moss on its own, but a few thoughtful touches can make it feel elevated. Elle suggests a length of ribbon, a sprig of eucalyptus or a cluster of dried berries, just enough to hint at the season without overwhelming the soft mossy texture. Once you’re happy, hang it somewhere guests will see first. It becomes a beautifully festive welcome.
Step 6 - help it thrive
Moss loves moisture, so mist your wreath every few days. If you’d like it to last into the new year, soak the base in a shallow tray of water and store it outdoors somewhere cool, straw-side down. Or if you’re dreaming up a new look for next Christmas, simply let the moss dry, compost it and tuck the straw base away for future making.
Feeling spontaneous? Sneak off to the beautiful North Cornwall coast with loved ones in tow, for a memorable Christmas by the sea.
