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DIY: Himmeli Geometric Wreath Tutorial

Welcome to Off the Beaten Press, where we celebrate creativity and the art of DIY. If you’re looking to enhance your home decor with a unique and striking piece, why not try your hand at crafting a Himmeli geometric wreath? This Scandinavian-inspired decor item is not only visually captivating but also an enjoyable project to undertake. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the steps to create your very own Himmeli wreath, perfect for any season or occasion.

What is Himmeli?

Himmeli is a traditional Finnish decoration made from straw, often associated with the festive season. The term "Himmeli" translates to "sky" in English, alluding to the airy and delicate nature of its geometric forms. Typically, these structures are made of hollow materials arranged into intricate shapes. In recent times, the aesthetic appeal of Himmeli has made its way into modern decor, and it’s particularly loved for its minimalist style.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into your Himmeli wreath, gather the following materials:

Materials:

• Wooden or metal wire (24 gauge recommended)
• Straw or raffia (can also substitute with bamboo skewers or plastic drinking straws)
• Wire cutters
• Floral wire (if adding faux greenery)
• Thick cardboard or a hoop (for the base)
• Scissors
• Hot glue gun (optional for added detail)
• Decorative items (optional: faux flowers, ribbons, etc.)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Create the Base

Start by cutting a piece of thick cardboard into a circular shape to serve as the base of your Himmeli wreath. Alternatively, you can use a metal hoop, which will provide a sturdier frame. Ensure the size of the base complements the space where you intend to hang your wreath.

Step 2: Cut the Straws

If you are using straws, measure and cut them into equal lengths, typically about 4-6 inches long, depending on the size of your wreath. If you’re using straw or raffia, you will want longer pieces to create a more traditional look.

Step 3: Forming the Geometric Shapes

Now for the fun part! Begin constructing the geometric shapes typical of Himmeli. A popular choice is to create tetrahedrons or diamonds. You can connect the straws with wire to secure them in place, holding them firmly at the joints.

1. To create a tetrahedron: Take three straw pieces and connect them into a triangle using wire, then attach the fourth straw vertically to the centre of the triangle to create a three-dimensional shape.
2. For a square: Create a square using four straws and add another straw vertically from the centre for dimension.

Continue forming several of these shapes as you will need at least 5-10 to create a balanced wreath.

Step 4: Assembling the Wreath

Once you have a variety of your geometric forms, it’s time to assemble them onto your base. Begin by attaching the shapes securely to the cardboard or hoop using floral wire. Arrange them in a pleasing pattern, ensuring a balance between visual weight and aesthetics.

Step 5: Adding Greenery or Decorative Elements

For a touch of elegance, consider incorporating faux greenery or flowers into your wreath. Use a hot glue gun to affix these decorations among the geometric shapes for added texture and colour. Incorporate ribbons as well for a more whimsical touch.

Step 6: Find Your Perfect Space

Once completed, hang your Himmeli wreath in a spot that will showcase its beauty. It could be on a front door, above a fireplace, or on a feature wall.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Himmeli geometric wreath is a rewarding project that allows you to express your creativity whilst bringing a piece of Scandinavian charm into your home. This unique wreath can be a delightful showcase of your crafting skills and a talking point for guests. Feel free to experiment with different colours, sizes, and shapes to make it truly your own!

We hope you enjoyed this DIY tutorial from Off the Beaten Press. Be sure to share your completed projects with us on social media — we can’t wait to see how your Himmeli wreath turned out! Happy crafting!