Christmas Wreaths

Last Friday I finally learned the correct technique for constructing a Christmas wreath.

My previous efforts had constituted of the random stuffing of twigs and white heather into an old wreath ring we found in the charity shop.  It could be argued that I needed only to log on to the Web and find a tutorial, but a class was much more satisfying.

The event was free, courtesy of Lancashire's Adult Learning Service.  What a privilege to walk to my library for an afternoon session with my 'library buddies' - some of the friends and neighbours with whom I regularly knit and natter or do art.

All we were told bring was greenery, gloves and secateurs.

I think my first lesson was that you need plenty of foliage.  Fortunately the ladies with large gardens had been out with loppers to bring larch, laurel, yew, holly, ivy, pyracantha and the like.  I had done a little judicious trimming of a variated evergreen with some holly and ivy.  But there was more than enough to share.

I enjoy being taught a new skill.  It is over twenty years since I graduated with my PGCE FE but I appreciate the way good adult tutors stage the lesson, pay attention to individual learners, vary the pace and send us all away with a finished product. I welcome the encouragement of the tutor and of the others in the class.  As I get older this exchange of views and support has become more significant for me.

I did carry my large wreath home (in the rain).  I also scooped up the trimmings I had brought with me so that I could secure them, in bunches of three, around the 'charity shop' ring with its decorations.  

So now we have two wreaths, hung in place outside the porch by my husband with strict orders not to touch.  I am pleased with my handiwork.