I enjoy incorporating natural elements into my holiday decorations! Creating a dried orange garland adds a Scandinavian flair and a delightful burst of color to any space. Plus, they fill your home with a fresh citrus scent and are incredibly cost-effective to make! Follow this easy guide by TeeNavi on how to make a dried orange garland for a charming and fragrant addition to your seasonal decor.
1. How To Make A Dried Orange Garland
Seems like dried orange garlands are all the rage this year, as I’m spotting them everywhere! Whether I’m at my neighborhood bakery or browsing online, these charming dried oranges are catching my eye. Learning how to make a dried orange garland could be a delightful way to join in on this popular trend!
1.1 What you’ll need
Learning how to make a dried orange slice garland is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll need just a handful of supplies, most of which are likely already in your kitchen! So, let’s start this fun DIY project. Here are the essentials for creating your very own dried orange garland:
- 4-5 large oranges
- A sharp knife for slicing
- Cutting board for preparation
- Cookie sheets for baking
- Parchment paper to line the sheets
- Paper towels for drying
- Fishing wire or twine for stringing the slices
>>>> CLICK NOW: How to hang a wreath without a wreath hanger: 7 ways
1.2 Step 1 – Turn on the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 225ºF. For those wondering how to make a dried orange garland, using the convection setting on your oven can be helpful. It circulates the air, often eliminating the need to flip the orange slices. However, this step is optional based on your oven type!
1.3 Step 2 – Slice the oranges
When I initially embarked on how to make a Christmas garland with dried oranges, I sliced the oranges to a thickness of 1/4th inch. However, in hindsight, I realize a thinner slice would have been better, ideally aiming for 1/8th inch in thickness.
>>>> LEARN MORE: 14+ ways to hang stockings without a mantle in Christmas
1.4 Step 3 – Bake oranges
Learning how to make a dried orange garland begins in the oven. Bake your orange slices for around 3 hours at 225ºF, or until they begin to dry and show a hint of browning. To ensure even drying and browning, it’s helpful to flip the oranges halfway through the baking process. This allows both sides to dry uniformly.
Remember, oven temperatures can vary significantly. Many have found that a lower temperature, starting at around 170ºF, prevents the orange slices from burning, especially in hotter ovens. Adjusting the temperature according to your oven’s specifications is key in the process of making a dried orange garland.
>>>> FOR YOU: 20+ ideas for decorating a lantern for Christmas holiday
1.5 Step 4 – Cool and string the wreath
Once your orange slices are out of the oven, give them time to cool – they emit such a delightful aroma! I typically let mine cool directly on the tray for several hours before starting my garlands, as I find they continue to dry even while hanging. However, for those who prefer to ensure extra dryness, placing the slices on a cooling rack for a few days is a great option.
When you’re ready to assemble, thread the oranges onto a clear fishing line for your garland. Remember, when stringing, poke the line through the orange’s flesh, not the rind. This technique is a key step in learning how to make a dried orange and cinnamon garland, creating a charming and fragrant decoration for your home.
1.6 Step 5 – Add decorations
Creating a dried orange garland adds a charming and natural touch to holiday decorations. I adore the classic appearance of a simple, solid dried orange garland. However, to enhance its look, consider interspersing some wooden beads, tiny pine cones, or even small branches from your Christmas tree. Adding these elements can introduce a rustic and diverse texture, making your garland a unique and personalized feature of your holiday decor. This approach not only adds variety but also brings a bit of the outdoor winter wonderland inside your home.
2. FAQs about how to make a dried orange garland
2.1 Can I use a dehydrator to dry oranges?
Feel free to use a dehydrator as an alternative to an oven for your needs. Dehydrators typically provide a more controlled environment for drying, which might even yield better results than an oven. Plus, using a dehydrator can be more energy-efficient and can preserve flavors and textures more effectively.
2.2 How long can dried orange wreaths last?
A dried orange wreath, when crafted and preserved correctly, can remain vibrant for up to two years. The key to its longevity lies in proper storage. If you store it in an airtight container and place it in a cool, dry area during the Christmas off-season, it will maintain its beauty and aroma. Remember, the better you care for it, the longer this delightful piece of holiday decor will last.
2.3 Do dried nectarine wreaths attract insects?
When learning how to make a dried orange garland, it’s crucial to fully dehydrate the orange slices. Any remaining moisture can attract bugs or cause the slices to rot. However, you’ll find that these orange slices typically continue to dry out even more the longer they are left exposed to air.
2.4 Can I substitute another type of citrus?
Fortunately, the technique for how to make a dried orange garland is versatile and works with all types of citrus, allowing you to add a burst of color to your garland. Here are a variety of options you can consider:
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Blood oranges
- Lime
- Cuties (mandarins)
2.5 Can I keep dried orange wreaths for next year?
Learning how to make a dried orange garland can be a delightful holiday tradition, and the best part is that these garlands can be reused annually. Some of our readers have successfully preserved theirs for as long as seven years! The key to longevity lies in storing them in an airtight container.
Additionally, one helpful tip is to lightly spray each side with hairspray, which aids in their preservation. I enjoy the process of making fresh garlands every year since it’s quite simple. If you choose not to keep them, the orange slices are compostable, making this a sustainable holiday choice.
Discover the simplicity of creating a charming decoration with TeeNavi‘s guide on how to make a dried orange garland. This delightful DIY project requires just a few basic supplies, many of which you likely already have at home. So, let’s dive into this creative endeavor! TeeNavi outlines all the essentials you’ll need to begin crafting your very own DIY Dried Orange Garland.
>>>> RELATED CONTENT: How to keep a Christmas wreath fresh: 12 tips you should know
I’m Jennifer Tran, a helpful staff member at TeeNavi. My expertise lies in providing valuable advice on gifts and experiences for special occasions such as Halloween, Christmas, and Thanksgiving. I enjoy suggesting memorable experiences, thoughtful ideas, and unique gifts. As a dependable and supportive colleague, I’m always ready to lend a hand when it comes to selecting gifts for holidays.
Related Posts
10+ Easy How To Make A Santa Ornament For Christmas
How to make a Santa ornament can be a delightful addition to your holiday crafting....
Dec
How to string lights on a Xmas tree: Easy Step-to-step guide
Another Christmas season is coming, are you still struggling with how to decorate your tree?...
Dec
How To Decorate A Balcony For Christmas: Check This 25 Ideas
When figuring out how to decorate a balcony for Christmas, consider using string lights, garlands,...
Dec
DIY Christmas Doormat With 5 Easy Steps For You
A welcoming doormat is one of the first things guests notice when they step into...
Dec
30 simple DIY Christmas front door decor ideas for modern touch
After you’ve finished decorating your tree, take your holiday spirit outdoors to adorn your front...
Dec
How To Make Dried Orange Slices For Christmas Decorations
Dried orange slices can be a delightful and versatile addition to your home. Not only...
Dec