A Natural Festive Decoration

Taking time away from the hustle and bustle of the season to gather foliage, berries and seed heads from the garden and hedgerows is a wonderful way to engage with the outside world and bring nature into your home. Decorating with natural materials does not necessarily require a great deal of effort and need not be expensive. It can also form part of family traditions to be enjoyed each year in the run up to Christmas.
A swag is a layered bundle of foliage and is a simpler alternative to a wreath. It can be displayed inside or outside to bring freshness to a door, mantel or wall during the festive season.
Creating a festive swag decoration for your home:
- Mixed seasonal foliage such as pine, cedar and fir.
- Secateurs
- Ribbon, twine or wire for hanging
- Embellishments if desired
- Gather together fresh foliage foraged from the garden or hedgerows alongside any acquired Christmas tree offcuts or herbs.
- Trim with secateurs and layer different lengths into a loose bundle, ideally arranging longer stems on the bottom and shorter ones on top.
- Secure stems with garden twine or florists wire and finish with a decorative ribbon.
- Add decorative seasonal accents such as pinecones, baubles or bells, keeping the overall appearance simple and natural.
- To hang the swag, create a hanger out of wire, twine or ribbon.
- Hang on the front door to welcome guests or display inside to be enjoyed during the festive season.