How to Make Cedar Swags

Simple Swags

• 1

  Gather fresh cedar branches to work with. They should be 12 to 18 inches long for simple swags or 6 to 8 inches long for swag ropes. Whatever the size, choose branches that are green and free of dead material, with slender, supple stems.

• 2

  Condition the freshly gathered cedar for several hours before using it, by cutting the stems at a 45 degree angle and then gently crushing the cut ends with a small hammer before placing the branches in a bucket or bowl of warm water.

• 3

  Select your greenery---two or three branches is usual, but you will want a bunch that is thick enough to look good, yet compact enough to hang relatively flat against a door or other surface.

• 4

  Arrange the branches into a pleasing pattern and tie the stems tightly together with floral wire, leaving a small loop in the back for hanging. (Wrap a few turns of floral tape around the stems to bind them further and disguise the ragged ends if desired.)

• 5

  Add a large bow at the top, and decorate with pine cones, ornaments or other seasonal materials to finish.

Swag Ropes

• 6

  Follow steps 1 through 4 above, using smaller branch ends---6 to 8 inches long.

• 7

  Cut a piece of jute twine (of whatever length you prefer) and lay it on a table or other flat work surface.

• 8

  Lay one bundle of cedar on top of the twine and attach it there by twisting a piece of wire securely around both it and the twine.

• 9

  Place another bundle so as to slightly overlap the first, and then wire it in place the same way.

• 10

  Continue wiring bundles of cedar until you reach the end of the twine. Add to the look with other evergreens or additional floral materials---Lauren Bonar Swezey, writing for Sunset magazine, lists some wonderful ideas to give your swags extra pizazz.