How to Choose the Perfect Base for Your Wreath

It’s all about the base

So you have ventured into the craft of wreath making and you’re wondering, what wreath base or frame you should be using? Well, I’m here to tell you everything I know about choosing the perfect base or frame for your next wreath design. There are a variety of wreath frames you can use depending on the look you’re going for.

Here I will go over the different types of wreath bases available. I will tell you the pros and cons of each, and how they are best used. Some wreath designers prefer to use one type while others like to change things up depending on the style of wreath they are making.

As you can see, there is a wide variety of bases and frames used to make wreaths. From the most popular wire frame to unusual hanging wall decor. There are no rules, so next time you are out shopping if you see a wall decoration that can use some sprucing up. Why not create something unique and one of a kind.

Without further ado let’s jump into the first type of wreath frame.

The Wire Wreath frame/base

The most common type of base used in wreath making is the wireframe. If you’re new to wreath making, more likely this is the type of frame you have been using. This was my go-to frame when I started making wreaths. So, let’s go over the pros and cons of these.

Pros

• Accessibility, wireframes are found at any, Dollar Tree, local craft store, or online craft store. They are available year-round so no need to stock up.
• They are available in all different shapes and sizes. Also with or without twist ties, there are multiple shapes available like Christmas trees, crosses, and hearts.
• Prices can be very affordable. Most wireframes I have used cost anywhere from 1$ to 8$. Believe it or not, I prefer to use the Dollar Tree frames and add my twist ties.
• It’s lightweight, perfect to keep down shipping costs.

Cons

• You are limited to the number of tinsel ties available unless you add more. Anything you add must be attached securely to the wire rings.
• Wireframes are intended to be used with materials such as burlap, deco mesh, or ribbon. Making it difficult to attach large embellishments, but it can be done.

The downside to wire wreath frames is small and as you advance in your wreath-making skills you will find new and unique ways of using them. Try using zip ties to attach flowers or wrap a plain frame with ribbon or fabric. This will make an inexpensive and unique design. You can even attach pine cones, ornaments, or clothespins

Pine or Evergreen Wreath Frame

This next wreath base is my personal favorite. Once I learned how to work with these I didn’t want to use anything else. You may think that these are used only during the Christmas season but they make wonderful wreath designs any time of the year.

Pros

• They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. The round base is the most common but you can find teardrop swags, long garlands, table centerpiece swags, and even saddle style bases used for mailboxes and sympathy pieces like tombstones and caskets.
• Although they may be more difficult to find, evergreen bases are available in a variety of colors, flocked and with lights.
• Their fullness allows you to add a variety of embellishments, ribbon, mesh, flowers, and greenery.

Cons

• Mainly sold during the holiday season, so be sure to stock up to have them available throughout the year. Stores like Hobby Lobby, Joann, and Michael’s can have some good deals after the holidays so be sure and load up your shopping cart with those evergreen bases.
• Unless you get them at a reduced price, they can cost more than your average wireframe.
• They are heavier than wireframes which can increase your shipping prices.
• They can be more difficult to work with if you’re just starting out in the wreath-making business.

One thing I can say is that once you try these wreath bases you wont’ want to use a wire frame again.

Grapevine wreath base

A grapevine wreath base is a wonderful option if you’re going for a natural rustic look. They work great with florals and are perfect for any time of the year. You can create a simple farmhouse look or go all out and create an elegant floral design.

Pros

• Accessibility. Grapevine wreaths are found at most craft store and online.
• They come in different sizes and many fun shapes like hearts and bunny rabbits.
• Price is very reasonable depending on size or shape.

Cons

• They can be messy. After all, they are made of natural vines. It’s a good idea to give them a good cleaning before working with them to clean off the loose debris.
• May be difficult to work with. Look for ones that are not wound too loose or too tight so that greenery or florals used are easy to add or don’t fall out.

If you have never used a grapevine base, give it a try. I think that after trying them a couple of times you will determine if they are for you. If they aren’t there are still many other options.

Moss Wreath Base

Moss basses are becoming more popular. Take a look on Pinterest and you will see some very beautiful designs made on a moss frame. Although they are different and give a natural look to your designs you will find the cons outweigh the pros.

Pros

• The fresh green appearance makes any design stand out. Use them any time of the year. They will dress up any door no matter the season or holiday.
• They are available in different shapes and sizes. Mainly round or oval but I have also seen crosses and other seasonal shapes.

Cons

• Availability, they can be difficult to find and are usually seasonal. You can occasionally find them in local craft stores but they are made of foam and not always the best quality. Also check online craft stores, such as Craftoutlet, The Wreath Shop, Trendy Tree, or Decoexchange in early spring to see if there are any available. If you find them, grab them because they see out fast. You can also look on Etsy.

• They can be very messy. As you can see in the picture above, they do leave a lot of debris.
• They can be expensive, prices ranging from $15.00 up to $30.00. Something you want to consider if you are on a budget.
• They can be difficult to work with. Adding items such as greenery and flowers can be hard. The fame itself can be very rigid. Try using items like zip ties or pipe cleaners along with good hot glue to keep your items in place.
• Before you go out and spend a bunch of money on moss basses, see how you like working with them. Are they something your customers are willing to pay a higher price for? and of course, always price your designs appropriately. Don’t sell yourself short, your designs are always worth what you put into them.

Other options

These include foam bases, beaded rings, and embroidery hoops. You can use just about anything that hangs on a wall as a base to create a beautiful wreath or door decoration. Picture frames, window frames, bicycle wheels, crosses, and small metal windmills make wonderful options to create amazing and unique designs. Always keep in mind size and weight especially if you are shipping your items. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and try new things. This is what’s going to set your designs apart and help you make your brand.

Wire wreath frames are still the most popular used but many wreath makers are exploring more options. Why? Because there are no rules in crafting.

Tell me, what is your favorite wreath base to use? and what has been your least favorite?