Here’s a simple way to tie a ribbon tail bundle on a wreath. It’s easier than a full bow and works great for seasonal or holiday decorating. You can make one large bundle to hang from the top, bottom or multiple smaller ones to attach around the wreath. This goes really well with a cottage style theme.
What Type of Wreath To Use
I love using different styles of wreaths throughout my home – from grapevine, faux boxwood, cedar, cotton and I even use candle rings as mini wreaths. They are so cute to hang on cabinets, ladders, stair railing and more.
For the purpose of this post, I am using a dollar store candle ring as a mini wreath. Mine measures 7 inches from back-to-back but when it’s spread and fluffed out, it’s around 12 inches. This one is a little larger than a candle rings wreath but it’s also not as big as a normal 22+ inch door wreath.
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Supplies You’ll Need
- Assorted satin, velvet, organza, grosgrain ribbons, etc. (various patterns, colors, and widths — e.g., 3/16” to 2.5”+; aim for 3-8 coordinating ribbons, depending on the size of the wreath)
- Scissors or fabric scissors
- Lighter (to heat-seal ends and prevent fraying, optional)
- Zip ties (6-inch green, preferably) + split key ring (1-inch) — recommended for easy hanging
- Or twine/thin ribbon/pipe cleaners/floral wire for securing
- Wreath (boxwood, grapevine, wire form, etc.)
- Optional: Command hook for door hanging, ruler/tape measure
Instructions for a Hanging Ribbon Bundle
1. Choose and Cut Ribbon Lengths
Measure so the bundle hangs proportionally to your wreath (e.g., 6–12 inches below a 18–20” wreath).
Cut each ribbon to about 48–50 inches long for a standard size (it will fold in half to hang ~24–25 inches). Test by draping over the wreath first. I cut mine at 13 inches which is 26 inches unfolded.
2. Prep the Ends
Heat-seal the cut ends of each ribbon with a lighter (quickly pass the flame over the edge) to stop fraying. This is optional. I never do this with my indoor wreaths and my ribbon doesn’t fray. If I’m hanging the wreath outside though, I will seal the ends.
3. Stack the Ribbons
Lay them out with wider ribbons at the back/bottom of the stack and narrower ones in front for a nice layered look. Mix patterns and textures.
4. Secure the Bundle
Fold the ribbon stack in half to find the center.
• Zip tie + key ring method (easiest for hanging): Slide a zip tie through the key ring first. Place the folded center of the ribbons in the zip tie loop, pull it tight, and trim the excess. The key ring becomes your hanger.
5. Attach to the Wreath
Use a Command hook (or a nail is fine) on your door/wall, hang the key ring over it, then hang the wreath on top (or use a wreath hanger). The bundle cascades down from the top or bottom center.
6. Optional Finishing Touch
Tie a decorative bow with one of the ribbon strands around the secured center for a polished look. Fluff and arrange the tails. Add seasonal accents like flowers, leaves, or ornaments if desired.
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Alternative Way to Hang the Wreath
If you don’t have a zip tie or key ring, just pinch the center of the ribbon bundle and wrap tightly with twine, thin ribbon, or floral wire/pipe cleaner. You can create a loop for hanging. I hung this one from a ladder and just used both the ribbon bundle and the top bow to tie them off to the ladder rail.
HOMEMAKER’S NOTE
I’m using patriotic colors for Summer decor. By not glueing the ribbon or embellishments to the actual wreath, you can swap out for different holidays.
Store each seasonally ribbon tail bundle in a ziplock bag and write the contents with a black sharpie. Don’t forget to add any extras that you may have used for that season.
Supplies Used
Eucalyptus & Boxwood Wreath, Grapevine Wreath or a Dollar Store Wreath
Tape Measurer
Red Stripe Ribbon, Blue Chiffon Ribbon
Key Ring, optional
Zip Ties, optional
Command Hook or Nail
Lighter
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this simple and inexpensive wreath for your home. It will surely bring that cottage feel no matter where you hang it. Add pops of colors all throughout your home mixing up smaller and larger wreaths. Please share this post over on Pinterest and tag me on Instagram.
Wendy Lea Walker, NTP
Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
I’m Wendy. A wife, empty-nester mama, homemaker, homebaker, gardener and small-time farmer. I love sharing wisdom and mistakes I’ve learned along the way. Anyone can garden or homestead, no matter where you live. It’s a mindset. You just have to start somewhere. I believe food is medicine. Feed the body real whole foods and healing will begin. I’m an advocate for eating real food and enjoy sharing all my fresh-milled flour recipes. I’ve learned to slow down over the years from all the noise that came with life and enjoy creating a simple cottage home.
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