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There are so many reasons to love a dried orange garland. Beautiful, fragrant, rustic, and best of all…easy to make! Grab your oranges and let’s get crafting!

Deck the Halls (and Trees!) with this Simple Dried Orange Garland

I love that warm, cozy, handmade vibe, and nothing screams “winter wonderland” (or, you know, “California winter wonderland” which is slightly different, haha) like a beautiful, fragrant dried orange garland. It’s surprisingly easy to make, adds a touch of rustic charm to your home, and smells absolutely divine. Plus, it’s a great project to do with the kiddos!

Why you’ll love decorating with this Rustic Dried Orange Garland

• It’s a natural air freshener–no harsh or perfumy smells!
• It’s a simple and beautiful way to add a touch of handmade magic to your holiday decor.
• It’s cost effective! It is inexpensive to make year after year, but if the oranges are dried well and the garland is stored properly, it can last for several years!

What you’ll need to make a Dried Orange Garland:

• Dried orange slices: really you can use any kind! Navel, blood, even smaller citrus varieties like tangerines or mandarins!
• Large-eyed needle:
• Jute twine
• Cinnamon Sticks

How to make a Dried Orange Garland Without a Dehydrator

1. Start with dried orange slices. You can dry them yourself (I have a whole post on how to dry oranges for garland in the oven HERE), or purchase them.
2. Thread a large-eyed needle with jute twine, knotting off the end while creating a loop.
3. Carefully pierce the dried flesh of an orange slice with the needle and pull the twine all the way through so the orange slice is by the knot at the other end of the twine.
4. Pierce the other side of the orange flesh on the same side as the needle is currently on and gently pull the twine taut.
5. Then create your pattern! I typically do 3-4 orange slices (depending on the size) and then knot the twine around a cinnamon stick, then repeat the pattern until the string is full!

Tips and Tricks for making a Dried Orange Slice Garland with Cinnamon

• For a stronger scent, you can add a few drops of essential oil (like orange or cinnamon) to the oranges while they’re drying.
• If your oranges aren’t perfectly round, don’t worry! It adds to the rustic charm.
• Consider adding star anise for extra flair!
• You can also add other dried fruits, like apple slices or cranberries, to your garland for extra color and texture.

How to display dried orange garland

• Christmas Tree: We typically keep two Christmas trees up during the holidays; one is full of the homemade/school ornaments, fun ornaments, ornaments we have collected from travels, etc. The other is decorated in an old-fashioned European manner, with garlands made of dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks, fresh baby’s breath, and eucalyptus!
• Mantle/fireplace
• Stair railing
• Windows

DIY Dried Orange Garland Kit

These garlands make the cutest gift! You can gift them made, OR create a kit! Put together all of the supplies in a cellophane bag and attach an instruction card (you can make your own or download mine here!). Tie the bag together with additional jute twine and use a dried orange slice and a sprig of pine as a “gift topper,” or use a foldable tag and fold over the opening of the bag, then staple shut.

More ways to use Dried Orange Slices

• Potpourri: add to a bowl of dried flowers and spices, or to a simmer pot! (They work so well in this Winter Simmer Pot!)
• Ornaments: thread jute twine through the tip of the orange and “knot” to make a loop. Use to decorate your Christmas tree, put on door knobs, drawer pulls, etc.
• Beverage garnish: add a slice to the rim of a mocktail, place on the top of a cuppa’ hot herbal tea, or add to your holiday punch for a citrusy flair!
• Cake decorating: add to a frosted cake or cupcakes for a simple and elegant cake topper!
• Gift wrapping: use as a gift topper instead of a bow; I love wrapping my gifts in simple kraft paper, tying with white (or red/white) twine, and securing a dried orange slice and sprig of pine in the middle. It’s so simple, yet gorgeous and elegant!
• Charcuterie board: use to decorate and bring more color to your charcuterie board/spread.

How to store dried orange garland

Store your garland in a cool, dry place when not in use.

How long does dried orange garland last?

When stored properly, it can last for several years! My current garlands are 3 years old and still going strong!

So there you have it! A simple and beautiful way to add a touch of handmade magic to your holiday decor. Happy crafting! And don’t forget to share your creations – I’d love to see them!

RECIPE/METHOD

• Dried orange slices: really you can use any kind! Navel, blood, even smaller citrus varieties like tangerines or mandarins!
• Large-eyed needle:
• Jute twine
• Cinnamon Sticks

1. Thread a large-eyed needle with jute twine, knotting off the end while creating a loop.
2. Carefully pierce the dried flesh of an orange slice with the needle and pull the twine all the way through so the orange slice is by the knot at the other end of the twine.
3. Pierce the other side of the orange flesh on the same side as the needle is currently on and gently pull the twine taut.
4. Then create your pattern! I typically do 3-4 orange slices (depending on the size) and then knot the twine around a cinnamon stick, then repeat the pattern until the string is full!