DIY Summer Wreaths: Bright & Cheerful Front Door Decor

During summer, front doors are exposed to light, heat, and dry air. A well-built wreath helps protect the surface around the knocker or center panel while giving the entry a seasonal focal point. The wreaths in this guide use dried plants, rope, fruit, and simple fabric, materials that hold up outdoors and won’t require special tools.

Each design below includes easy-to-follow steps using basic tools and common materials.

Grapevine Wreath with Dried or Faux Florals

Grapevine wreaths hold up in heat and give you a strong base for layering plants and fabric. To make one:

• Start with a grapevine wreath base, 12–18 inches wide
• Select dried or faux flowers such as strawflower, lavender, peony, or eucalyptus
• Use floral wire to attach greenery evenly around the ring or in one section
• Add a wide cotton ribbon or a burlap strip to finish

Better Homes & Gardens shares floral assembly tips for summer wreaths.

Coastal Wreath with Rope and Seashells

If you’ve collected shells or driftwood from a trip, this is a good way to display them.

• Wrap a foam or wire wreath form in jute rope
• Use craft glue to attach shells, coral pieces, or small driftwood around one side
• Paint a few shells white or light blue if you want added contrast
• Attach a loop of cotton rope or linen ribbon for hanging

Herb and Burlap Wreath

This project combines garden cuttings and craft scraps. It works well near entryways that get partial shade.

• Use a straw wreath base and wrap it in twine
• Tie small bundles of rosemary, sage, or thyme with floral wire
• Overlap the bundles in one direction around the wreath
• Add small burlap bows or wood buttons between sections

Citrus and Cotton Ribbon Wreath

Use bold fruit shapes and light fabric to add contrast to neutral doors.

• Start with a wire wreath base
• Attach faux lemons or oranges with floral picks or wire
• Add ribbon in between clusters of fruit to break up the layout
• Use gingham, striped, or solid cotton fabric strips
• If desired, use dried lemon slices in place of faux fruit for a more natural look

Embroidery Hoop Wreath with Fabric and Greenery

This style keeps a clean shape and lightweight frame, ideal for renters or indoor use.

• Stretch muslin or canvas across a large wooden embroidery hoop
• Glue or wire faux greenery to the lower third of the hoop
• Use flat, flexible stems such as eucalyptus or lamb’s ear
• Leave the top section of the hoop exposed
• Hang using a loop of cotton twill or thin leather cord

DIY Summer Wreaths Built from What You Have

These DIY summer wreaths use common materials, like wood, fabric, rope, herbs, and fruit, to create seasonal door decor without fragile items or heavy tools. Each one starts with a weather-friendly base and builds outward using layers that last through summer heat.

Choose a design that matches the look of your porch or entry space. Use what you have, and shape it to fit the weather where you live.

Already made one? Share your steps in the comments, so others can follow.

FAQ: DIY Summer Wreaths

What base is best for outdoor summer wreaths?
Grapevine and straw bases work well. Foam bases hold up if wrapped tightly in fabric or rope.

Can I use real flowers outdoors?
Dried flowers are best. Fresh ones wilt in heat and often fall apart in direct sun.

What’s the best glue for outdoor use?
Use hot glue for light items and outdoor-rated craft adhesive for shells, wood, or driftwood.

How do I keep wreaths from fading?
Avoid direct sun when possible. Store your wreath in a dry, dark place once the season ends.