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Crafting a Cozy Flannel Wreath: A Step-by-Step Guide 

Category: Seasonal

There’s something inherently cozy and inviting about flannel. It reminds us of crisp autumn days, warm fires and of course, our favorite plaid shirts … from Goodwill. What better way to bring that comforting feeling into your home than with a DIY flannel wreath?

This simple and fun craft project transforms a plain wire wreath frame into a festive piece of décor with the help of upcycled flannel shirts from Goodwill. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your very own flannel wreath using 9-inch-by-3-inch strips of fabric and a wire frame. 

What You’ll Need 

  • Flannel shirts: Stop by your local Goodwill and purchase 5 to 7 flannel shirts, size XL if you can find them. Ensure they’re washed and ironed. 
  • Wire wreath frame: Typically found in craft stores, these frames come in various sizes. A 14-inch frame works well for most projects. 
  • Scissors: For cutting the flannel into strips. 
  • Fabric marker (optional): To mark cutting lines if necessary. 
  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks (optional): To secure any loose ends, if needed. 

Step-by-Step Instructions 

1. Prepare Your Flannel Strips 

  • Cut the flannel: Lay out your flannel shirts on a flat surface. Using your scissors, cut the shirts into 9-inch-by-3-inch strips. Try to be as consistent as possible with your cuts to ensure uniformity in your wreath. 
    • Trim and iron: If the strips are wrinkled, give them a quick iron to smooth them out. This step isn’t mandatory but helps the strips lay flatter on the frame. 

    2. Prepare Your Wire Frame 

    • Inspect the frame: Take your wire wreath frame and ensure it’s clean and free from any rust or sharp edges. If there are any sharp bits, you might want to cover them with tape to avoid injury. 
    • Plan your pattern: Decide on a pattern or color scheme. You can alternate colors or create a random, whimsical look — whatever suits your style. 

    3. Attach the Flannel Strips 

    • Start tying: Begin by placing one strip of flannel underneath the wire frame. Tie it around the wire with a simple knot. Make sure the knot is tight but not so tight that it distorts the flannel. 
    • Continue tying: Keep adding strips around the frame, spacing them out evenly. For a fuller wreath, you can pack the strips closer together. Alternate patterns and colors to achieve your desired look. 
    • Fill the Frame: Continue until the entire frame is covered. If you’re using a larger frame or prefer a more voluminous wreath, you may need more flannel strips. 

    4. Finishing Touches 

    • Adjust and fluff: Once all the strips are tied on, fluff each piece to make sure the wreath looks full and balanced. Adjust any strips that look out of place or uneven. 
    • Secure loose ends: If any strips seem like they might come loose, use a hot glue gun to secure them to the frame. This step is optional but can help ensure longevity. 

    5. Hang Your Wreath 

    • Choose the perfect spot: Find a spot to hang your wreath — on your front door, above the fireplace or anywhere you want a touch of cozy charm. 
    • Use a hook or ribbon: If the wire frame doesn’t have a built-in hanger, attach a hook to the back or use a ribbon to create a hanging loop. 

    Upcycling with Goodwill… 

    Creating a flannel wreath is not just a fun and easy project, but it also gives back to your local community. Each purchase in our stores helps fund our 30 mission programs throughout our 10-county footprint.

    So, whether you’re prepping for the holidays, celebrating fall or just adding a cozy touch to your home, this wreath brings a bit of warmth to your heart and your home because you upcycled with Goodwill! Happy crafting! 

    Share your flannel wreath with us by sending a picture of them to info@goodwillgoodskills.org