Festive DIY Delight: Crafting a Dried Orange Garland for Your Christmas Tree

When it comes to Christmas decor, there's a timeless charm in incorporating handmade ornaments and garlands. Dried orange garlands have become a symbol of rustic elegance during the holiday season, adding a touch of nature's beauty to your Christmas tree. Let's embark on a delightful crafting journey and learn how to make a stunning dried orange garland to adorn your tree.

Materials You'll Need:

Oranges
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Oven or dehydrator
Twine or string
Large sewing needle

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Oranges:

Wash and pat dry the oranges to remove any dirt or residue.

2. Slice the Oranges:

Using a sharp knife and a cutting board, thinly slice the oranges into approximately ¼ inch-thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform for even drying.

3. Remove Excess Moisture:

Lay out the orange slices on a paper towel to blot any excess moisture.

4. Choose a Drying Method:

Oven Drying: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (usually around 175°F or 80°C). Place the orange slices directly on the oven racks or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to dry for 3-4 hours, flipping them occasionally.
Dehydrator: Arrange the orange slices on the dehydrator trays in a single layer. Follow the dehydrator's instructions for drying fruits, usually around 135-140°F (57-60°C) for 8-12 hours.
Whichever method you choose, the goal is to have the orange slices completely dried with no moisture remaining.

5. Stringing the Garland:

Once the slices are fully dried and have cooled down, it's time to string them into a garland.
Thread a large sewing needle with twine or string, leaving a length that suits your desired garland length.

6. String the Orange Slices:

Gently insert the needle through the centre of each orange slice, threading them onto the twine. Leave enough space between each slice for a balanced and visually appealing garland.

7. Knot the Ends:

After you've strung all the orange slices, knot the ends of the twine to secure them in place.

8. Hang and Enjoy:

Your beautiful dried orange garland is ready! Gently drape it over your Christmas tree branches, a mantel, or anywhere else you'd like to showcase its natural charm.

Creating a dried orange garland is not only a joyful crafting experience but also a wonderful way to infuse your home with the scents and colours of the season. You can watch a video tutorial here. Enjoy the rustic elegance and the delightful fragrance it brings to your festive decorations. Happy crafting and Merry Christmas!