Ready to give your holiday decorations a fresh twist with a simple, charming craft? A dried orange garland is your perfect answer! This eco-friendly DIY project transforms navel oranges into a warm, festive decoration that radiates natural beauty. Whether you drape it across a mantel, use it as a centerpiece, or hang it on your Christmas tree, this garland is guaranteed to add a cozy, handmade touch to your home. Let’s break it down step by step and bring this cheerful decor to life!

 

Supplies You’ll Need:

Navel Oranges: Each large orange makes about a foot of garland if the slices are closely strung.

Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For those even, picture-perfect slices.

String or Twine: Red and white twine adds a festive flair, but any sturdy string works.

Needle & Scissors: A craft needle will make threading simple.

Food Dehydrator or Oven: Either works for drying the oranges to crispy perfection.

 

Step 1: Slice the Oranges

Start by slicing your oranges into thin, even rounds about ½ cm thick. Thin slices dry faster and are less prone to moisture retention. Skip the ends and save the middle slices, which will give your garland its signature rustic look. Pro tip: A little variation in size adds charm, so don’t stress about perfection.

 

Step 2: Dehydrate the Slices

Lay the orange slices flat on your dehydrator trays, making sure they don’t overlap. Let the dehydrator work its magic for 8–12 hours until the slices are dry, crisp, and free of juice.

No dehydrator? Don’t sweat it! Use a cookie sheet and your oven. A low temperature (around 200°F) and some patience will do the trick. Keep an eye on them, flipping occasionally for even drying.

 

Step 3: Prep the String

Thread your needle with plenty of string or twine. Plan for extra length—aim for eight to ten feet of string for a six-foot garland to allow for spacing and knots. Tie a loop at one end to make hanging the garland easier later.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a needle, you can use a toothpick to poke holes in the orange slices. Then, use tape to create a spear on the end of your twine. Remember how your mom used to do your shoelaces when the hard plastic came off the end? That’s what you’re going for!

 

Step 4: String the Garland

Lay out your dried orange slices to plan their arrangement. Group the visually striking slices and the simpler ones separately so you can alternate for a balanced look.

 

 Here’s how to string them:

Insert the needle through the fleshy part of one side (avoiding the rind).

Pull the string through the back of the slice.

Repeat on the opposite side, creating a clean line across the slice.

Slide each slice down the string, leaving about a foot of slack at the start.

You can place slices snugly together or leave space between them for a breezy, minimalist aesthetic. When all slices are strung, cut off the needle and tie a loop at the other end for hanging.

 

Step 5: Deck the Halls!

Your dried orange garland is now ready for its moment in the spotlight. Hang it over the mantel, drape it around your tree, or use it as a centerpiece to elevate your holiday decor.

 

A Handmade Holiday Win 🎄

Congratulations! You’ve created a stunning dried orange garland that’s not just beautiful but also a heartfelt addition to your seasonal decorations. It’s the perfect reminder of the joy that comes with handmade crafts and the simple pleasures of the holidays.

So, take a moment to admire your work, soak in the festive vibes, and let your home bask in the glow of your creative flair. Happy holidays, and may your home be filled with warmth and cheer!