How to make a Christmas wreath
Research carried out by Bosch Lawn & Garden has revealed that while a quarter of us make our own Christmas wreaths - a similar number feel they lack the creativity to attempt it.
To help us all make the most of this year's bumper crop of berries and abundant evergreens, Bosch Lawn & Garden has written a simple how-to guide and top tips for turning even the most creatively-challenged into expert wreath-makers.
What you need:
Wire wreath ring, or alternatively use a coat hanger
Florist or Garden wire
Ribbon or strip of material
Vegetation - conifers are good, but you can also use holly, ivy and laurel
Ciso cordless secateurs or another pruning device
What to do:
1 First of all find your greenery - this is the best part! Take your Ciso cordless secateurs, or any cordless pruning device, and explore your local woods, your garden or even the neighbours' gardens, if you have permission.
2 Once that is done, take the wreath ring and add a hanging loop at the top.
3 To attach the foliage to the wreath ring, secure a bunch of leafy vegetation with florist wire at one end, then tie with another piece to the ring. Repeat this every five cm (two inches) around the ring, weaving the vegetation in and out. At the end you should have a wreath of relative fullness all the way around.
4 Use your creativity when attaching the foliage and mix colours, textures and sheen. Greens in different shades go well with silver leaves. Well placed sprigs of holly will provide shine, and berries in random intervals and of different colours will finish it off. If you're planning on including pine cones, all you need to do is plan space accordingly when attaching the foliage.
5 Once you're happy with it, finish with a bow at the top or the bottom, or hang something pretty in the middle.
The cordless Ciso has an integrated lithium-ion battery and a patented 'Power Blade' system which can glide through branches up to 14mm in diameter. The innovative trigger system enables up to one cut per second, meaning that collecting the foliage for your wreath couldn't be easier - ensuring that your Christmas preparations will be as stress-free as possible.
The Ciso Secateurs are available from all major garden centres and home appliance stockists, RRP £59.99.