How to Make a 21-Inch Fused Ruffle Wreath

Are you ready to create a gorgeous 21-inch fused ruffle wreath for your home or as a thoughtful gift? This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, equipping you with all the tips and tricks you need to achieve beautiful results. Whether you’re new to wreath-making or a seasoned DIY crafter, this method will help you add a professional touch to your design using the “fused ruffle” technique.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all the materials you’ll need to make your wreath. Here’s a quick list to set you up for success:

Materials:

• Wreath frame with ties already attached (or add 10 ties to the bottom and 8 to the top if using a Dollar Tree frame)
• 21-inch deco mesh (360 inches, cut into 20-inch strips)
• Rotary cutter (preferred over scissors for clean cuts)
• Wood burning tool (optional, but highly recommended for fusing mesh edges)
• Tempered glass cutting board (non-textured)
• Clips (to hold mesh in place)
• Ribbon (to add decorative touches)
• Optional wreath attachment (for personalization)

Note on Tools:

• A wood burning tool is perfect for fusing edges to prevent fraying. Ensure you invest in a heat-resistant stand (like a Hot Shot) for safety, and always work on a tempered glass cutting board to protect your surfaces.

Step 1: Preparing the Frame

If your wreath frame comes with pre-attached ties, you’re ready to go! Open all the ties so they’re ready for your mesh. If you’re using a plain frame, attach 10 ties on the bottom and 8 on the top (you can find a tutorial for this on my Wreath Making for Beginners channel).

Pro Tip:

Opening the ties beforehand saves time once you start adding the mesh.

Step 2: Cutting the Mesh

Unroll the 21-inch mesh and cut it into 20-inch lengths. You’ll need 18 pieces in total (10 for the bottom and 8 for the top). Use a rotary cutter for quick, clean cuts, which will minimize damage to the mesh.

Optional Step:

For a long-lasting and polished finish, use a wood burning tool to fuse the edges of each piece. The fused edges will prevent fraying and give your wreath a more professional look.

How to Fuse:

• Place your deco mesh on the tempered glass cutting board.
• Use the wood burning tool to carefully follow the edge of the mesh, fusing it together as you go.
• Work slowly and methodically to get clean, fused edges.

If you don’t have a wood burning tool, you can fold under the raw edges when you shape the ruffles (explained in Step 3).

Step 3: Creating the Ruffles

Take one 20-inch piece of mesh and lay it flat on your work surface.

• For fused mesh, fold the mesh in half so the fused edges meet.
• For non-fused mesh, tuck the raw edges under slightly to hide any frays.

Now, pinch the center of the mesh and scrunch it up to create a ruffle. You should end up with “open” ends on one side and “closed” ends on the other.

Tip for Visual Depth:

Alternate between placing the open and closed ends on your wreath frame. For example, with one tie, face the open end outward, and with the next tie, place the closed end outward. This creates a fuller and layered ruffle effect.

Step 4: Attaching Ruffles to the Frame

Secure each ruffle to the frame by placing them in the ties and twisting them tightly. Start with the bottom row first, working your way around the entire frame. Once the bottom row is complete, move to the top row and repeat the process.

Here’s What You’ll Notice:

• Fused ruffles tend to look thicker and more polished because the edges are cleaner and doubled up.
• The alternating placement of open and closed ends gives a beautifully textured, full appearance.

Step 5: Adding Decorative Ribbons

Now that your ruffles are complete, it’s time to add ribbon for a finishing touch.

• Cut your ribbons into 12-inch lengths and dovetail the ends for a polished look. Simply fold the ribbon in half and cut a diagonal line from the open edge to the fold.
• Take two ribbons, fold them in half, and pinch the center. Run your fingers under the ribbon to fluff them up. Place them in a tie on the bottom row of the wreath.

If you’re using a large wreath attachment (like a Valentine’s Day sign), limit the ribbons to the bottom row to avoid competing with the attachment.

Step 6 (Optional): Adding a Wreath Attachment

Personalize your wreath by attaching your chosen decor piece, like a sign or floral arrangement, to the center of the frame. Use floral wire or hot glue to secure the attachment firmly in place.

Step 7: The Finishing Touch

Once everything is attached, adjust the ribbons and ruffles for balance and even spacing. Fluff the mesh and ribbons to create a full, symmetrical look.

Take a step back and admire your colorful, intricately designed 21-inch fused ruffle wreath—perfect for your front door, an event, or even as a gift!

Bonus Tips:

• Always start fusing from the folded edge of the mesh to make the process smoother.
• Use a bag sealer as an alternative to the wood burning tool, though it can take slightly longer.
• Keep your workspace safe by always using heat-resistant tools and surfaces.

Final Thoughts

Congratulations—you’ve just learned how to make a beautiful 21-inch fused ruffle wreath! This method adds a polished and professional quality to your designs while saving you time in the long run. Whether you’re decorating your home or selling your creations, this technique is sure to impress.

Have questions about this tutorial? Or want to share your stunning wreath? Join our Wreath Making for Beginners community, where DIY enthusiasts and professionals share tips, tricks, and ideas to keep the creativity flowing.

Happy crafting—and don’t forget to check out my video guides for even more inspiration!