Orange + Cranberry Garland.

by dubayfamily

After deciding I was done with those SIX Rubbermaid’s crammed full of Christmas stuff, we began a different kind of Christmas decorating by using natural items only. I purchased a large bag of Cranberries at Costco for $3 – and four oranges at the local supermarket.

Together, my children and I, created a new family tradition in which no one cried about. Here’s how to make your own Orange + Cranberry Garland.

You’ll Need:

• 1 large bag of fresh cranberries.
• 4 oranges.
• string.
• a large embroidery or cross stitch needle.

Directions:

Pre-heat your oven to the lowest setting, ours was 175 degrees. Slice oranges about 1/2 cm thick, and lay onto oven racks for 4-5 hours to dehydrate. I wanted ours a bit softer because of the way we strung them onto the garland. This will make your home smell AMAZING.

Gather supplies onto table, and feed your string through your embroidery needle. Begin by threading cranberries (we did 8 at a time), and then weave in your orange. Repeat this process until your strand is as long as desired, or until you run out of supplies.

Isla (3 years young) loved threading the cranberries, and Isabelle (6.5 years young) helped by counting them out + threading the oranges. This activity not only made the house smell unreal, but helped the children work on fine motor skills. We will be saving this garland for next year to add on to.