How to make a balsam fir wreath

In Maine, millions of wreaths are made each year. These wreaths are usually made from balsam fir brush. Balsam fir is used because it is both plentiful in Maine and also an easy material to make Christmas wreaths with.

The end portion of a balsam fir branch is called a "tip". Tip lengths range from 12 to 20 inches. This tip may be broken into 2 or 3 pieces. These pieces are placed together to form a tip bunch and wired onto a ring to make a wreath.

It is worth noting that balsam fir tips are a renewable resource and within a couple of years of harvesting,  the balsam fir tree is ready to be harvested again. Maine imposes severe penalties upon anyone who cuts down a tree in order to remove the branches and Maine Made Christmas only deals with reputable "tippers" to acquire our "tips".

1. Starting with a balsam fir branch or tip roughly 12 to 20 inches long

2. Break tip into to 2 or 3 pieces

3. Place top piece over bottom piece. Add another tip to complete bunch if needed.

5. Place the first tip bunch (slightly larger than the rest) on the ring. Needles should face upwards (dark side up).

6. Wind wire 2-3 times around the ring and tip bunch, then flip the wreath over.

7. Place 2nd tip bunch on the 1st bunch. Needles face opposite direction of the first bunch, stems pointed in same direction.

8. Attach 2nd bunch with wire at stems and in middle of bunch. Wire all the bunches at these tow spots.

9. Attach 3rd bunch a couple inches down from 2nd bunch on opposite side, completely covering 2nd bunch.