Bold and Beautiful Carnation Wreath

Red carnations add a pop of color to this entry. The wreaths hang from nearly invisible fishing line looped around the tops of the wreaths and attached to the doorjamb with finishing nails.

For added support and color, ribbons run through the centers of the wreaths and fasten to the top of the door frame with tacks. The wreaths last for a week or more outdoors. (Spritze the floral foam ring with water from a spray bottle as needed.)

Tools and materials

• 3½ feet fishing line (available at hardware stores)
• Clippers and scissors
• 15-inch plastic-backed floral foam ring}
• One packet flower preservative
• 75 carnations
• 2 yards ribbon

Directions

1. Tie fishing line around the top of the floral foam ring, knotting it and leaving the ends long for hanging.

2. Pour flower preservative into a water-filled tub, stir, then drop in the foam ring. Soak foam for 1 hour. Remove and let drain briefly.

3. Keep carnation stems in water while you work, removing several at a time to add to the wreath. While holding stem tips under water, cut several stems to about 2 inches long.

Starting on the inside of the foam ring, poke these shortened stems into the foam so the flower heads sit flat and petals touch. Continue around the inside, then cover the outside; do the front of the wreath last.

4. Hang wreath by fishing line. Add ribbon.