Wreath Interrupted

I've always admired these Smith and Hawken wreaths at Target.

They're simple, classy, and versatile. I, however, doubted my ability to store this rather expensive wreath properly. The flowers are so delicate! 

I sought an alternative. I liked the coffee filter wreaths I saw circulating on Pinterest, but wanted something that looked less coffee filtery. 

I managed to find this wreath made from coffee filters dyed using tea bags.

I set out to make my own following the blogger's instructions.

Believe it or not, the variety and quantity of tea bags really effects the color. The first time I dyed the filters, I used some expired Earl Grey and basic store brand. I left the filters in the tea bath for about 8 minutes and achieved the color I had in mind. I allowed them to hang dry overnight. 

Then I used them all and had to dye a few more to finish up. The second time around, I used only the basic store brand and the end result was too pink. Too pink to even use! I had to dye a third batch with different teas to better match those I originally used. Learn from my mistakes. I would recommend just using one variety, so that if you run out, you can easily replicate the color. 

I drove a screw driver into the 14" wreath and then removed it. Notice how I did not take off the plastic covering.

I wrapped the filter around a pen, applied some Gorilla glue to the filter, and then inserted the filter into the hole I had driven. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

I started in September and because I got distracted with other projects, as well as ran out of dyed filters, it took four sessions.

 

Over 150 filters later, I finally finished! It's full and the primary material isn't so obvious.

 

I haven't decided if I will hang it on a door outside or if it will be a part of an upcoming holiday mantel. Stay tuned!