Citrus + Persimmon Garland
Who knew that some dried fruit, bay leaves, wooden beads, and a tassel could make such a beautiful, festive garland? Make them long or short, hang them on doorknobs, on railings, on the mantel, or even around a Christmas tree! These dried fruit garlands are not only beautiful but are an easy project to do with the kids.
I have used this garland on the table, hanging on the wall, and even on the front door. They last a long time and are so pretty!
Who knew that some dried fruit, bay leaves, wooden beads, and a tassel could make such a beautiful, festive garland? Make them long or short, hang them on doorknobs, on railings, on the mantel, or even around a Christmas tree! These dried fruit garlands are not only beautiful but are an easy project to do with the kids.
INGREDIENTS:
1 x 5-10lbs or Oranges
1 x 5-10lbs of Lemons
1 x 5-10lbs of Persimmons
15mm + 20mm wooden beads
8 oz dried bay leaves
Waxed cotton thread
Cotton tassel
Embroidery Needle
Scissors
STEP 1:
Start by drying the oranges, lemons & persimmons.
OVEN Slice the navel oranges into 1/4” slices and lay them, in a single layer, on top of a baking sheet lined with parchment - or even better, directly on top of a cooling rack. Bake at 175 degrees for 4-5 hours until the oranges are crisp dry. You’ll want to give yourself at least a day of drying time as they take about 4-5 hours per batch.
SUN Alternatively, dry the oranges and lemons by laying them in the sun for 3 days (turning them every day, and bringing them in at night so they don’t get wet from fog, rain, or frost). TIP - this does not work for the persimmons as they will ripen in the sun and get soft.
Make sure there is no moisture remaining, and the fruit is completely dried out since they might develop mold and rot over time.
STEP 2:
Once your fruit is dried, you can start assembling the garlands. Cut double the desired length of thread for your garland. Thread the tassel on and fold the waxed cotton thread in half. Match the ends and give it a good twist. Use a thick and sharp embroidery needle to make holes in the dried fruit and bay leaves, then thread the items on, alternating between the oranges, lemon, persimmons, bay leaves, and wooden beads. Tie the loop into a double knot, with the knot as close to the top bead as possible.
STEP 3:
Finish with a few more wooden beads and then loop the remaining waxed thread. Finish with a tassel, pom-pom, velvet bow, or just leave as it is. These are great hung on doorknobs or made longer to hang along on a banister. If the fruit has been properly dried, these garlands should last you for years to come.
Content from Present Day Moms