Many families already look for special Christmas ornaments for their children to use on a tree, this is another way to showcase the ornaments the family has collected over the years. Think about starting a traditional family wreath with the cherished collectibles from the past years or start a new one this year with some of the terrific ornaments available today. Depending on the ribbons/decorations used, the wreath could even be displayed year-round.

The simple project is a wreath designed for our little niece. Laura is not quite one year old and is at a perfect age to easily start a a tradition like this. Yes, the wreath is a little sparse, but just wait a few years and it will be filled with memories.

How To:

• Assemble various craft supplies, including different glues, filler, wreath and ribbons.
• Find or buy a special ornament to spotlight the wreath.
• Play around with different layouts and trims. Move the pieces around to decide the best way to show the pieces to their best advantage.
• After the layout pleases you, start hot-gluing the background pieces and wind ribbon around the wreath.
• The ornaments go on next, make sure to securely fasten them with florist wire.
• When the wreath is ready to hang, attach the bow with wire so it can be easily removed for storage.

• Do write the date in a hidden spot (if the ornament is not dated).
• Do securely fasten any breakables with florist wire -- don't rely only on glue.
• Do think about keeping a written history of the pieces added each year and tucking it into the wreath storage box, or roll up and attach to the back of the wreath.
• Do think back each year to get the perfect ornament to add to the wreath. Find one that will bring to mind the year and perhaps a special event that might happened.
• Don't limit yourself to one color scheme, in the years to come it could be hard to find that special piece in the right color.
• Don't use real candy.
• Don't try and fill up the wreath the first few years, use inexpensive fillers that can be discarded.