Craft Your Own Charming Burlap Owl Wreath: A Rustic and Versatile DIY Guide

Owls have undeniably captured our hearts, becoming an iconic and beloved motif in home decor. Their whimsical charm and wise-eyed allure make them a perfect subject for crafting projects that bring warmth and personality to any space. This guide will walk you through creating a delightful rustic burlap-wrapped owl wreath – an incredibly versatile piece that seamlessly transitions through seasons, making it ideal for fall, spring, summer, or winter. Forget expensive store-bought decorations; this DIY project is budget-friendly, utilizes simple supplies, and offers endless possibilities for customization, truly embodying the spirit of creative crafting.

The Enduring Appeal of the Burlap Owl Wreath

Whether gracing your front door, adorning a wall, or serving as a cozy accent above your fireplace mantle, this adorable owl wreath instantly adds a touch of homemade charm to your home. Its true beauty lies in its adaptability. While warm brown burlap and earthy tones evoke a quintessential autumn aesthetic, a simple change in the color of your burlap ribbon or the foam paper used for wings can effortlessly transform this owl into a vibrant springtime bloom, a cheerful summer accent, or a snowy winter companion. This adaptability makes it a truly rewarding craft that you can enjoy creating and displaying all year long.

Owls have frequently appeared in our crafting adventures over the years, a testament to their inherent cuteness and the ease with which they can be brought to life through various mediums. From practical and heartwarming baby shower gifts like an easy owl diaper cake to fun, sustainable projects for kids such as an upcycled plastic cup owl, the owl theme inspires creativity across all ages and skill levels. We’ve even explored more sophisticated interpretations, like transforming a simple wine glass into an elegant owl craft. This burlap wreath continues that tradition, offering a simple yet impactful way to celebrate these fascinating creatures.

Beyond Burlap: Creative Alternatives for Your Wreath Form

While burlap ribbon lends itself beautifully to the rustic charm of this owl wreath, don’t feel limited if it’s not readily available or if you envision a different texture or aesthetic. The core principle is to find a material that can be easily wrapped around your wreath form and secured with glue. Take a moment to explore your existing craft supplies; you might discover a treasure trove of suitable options. Here are several fantastic alternatives that can replace burlap ribbon, allowing you to personalize your owl to perfection:

• **Ribbon Varieties:** Any type or color of ribbon that is at least 2 inches wide can work wonders. Opt for satin for a touch of elegance, grosgrain for a sturdy finish, or even patterned ribbons to introduce vibrant designs. However, it’s best to avoid very sheer lace as it may not fully conceal the wreath form underneath, compromising the overall neatness of your design.
• **Fabric Strips:** Repurpose old fabrics by cutting them into 2-inch wide strips. Felt, cotton, flannel, or even denim can add unique textures and colors. This is a fantastic way to upcycle materials, making your craft both personal and eco-friendly. Simply wrap and secure as you would with ribbon.
• **Raffia:** For an even more natural or bohemian look, colorful or plain raffia is an excellent choice. Unravel and flatten the raffia strands slightly before wrapping to ensure good coverage and a smooth appearance. Raffia offers a wonderfully organic texture that complements rustic themes beautifully.
• **Upcycled Textiles:** Give new life to an old shirt, blanket, or sheet by cutting it into strips. This method not only provides a cost-effective solution but also infuses your wreath with sentimental value and a unique, lived-in feel. The fabric type will dictate the final look, from soft and cozy to robust and textured.
• **Decorative Papers & Tulle:** For a lighter, more ethereal owl, consider using strips of tissue paper or wrapping paper. These can be wrapped carefully to create a delicate, layered effect. Tulle, with its sheer and airy quality, can add a whimsical touch, especially if layered to build opacity. These options are particularly great for indoor wreaths where weather exposure is not a concern.

Crafting Captivating Owl Eyes: Endless Possibilities

The eyes are undoubtedly the most expressive feature of your owl wreath, bringing its personality to life. For this project, we used readily available items like baby food jar lids, artificial flowers, and beads, which worked perfectly to create cute and engaging eyes. The key is to find a round item, approximately 2 inches or more in diameter, to serve as the base, and then smaller elements to create the iris and pupil, giving the eyes depth and a lifelike appearance. Don’t hesitate to explore your craft stash for imaginative combinations. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity:

• **For the Eye Base (2+ inches round):**
  • **Lids:** Bottle caps (larger ones), condiment jar lids, baby food jar lids, or even the inner rings of mason jar lids make excellent sturdy bases.
  • **Craft Foam/Cardboard Circles:** Cut out circles from craft foam, sturdy cardboard, or even painted wood slices for a rustic touch.
  • **Recycled Materials:** Consider bottle bottoms (for a glass-like effect), or even flat, polished stones.
• **For the Iris/Middle Part of the Eye:**
  • **Artificial Flowers:** The centers of artificial flowers, like the ones used in the tutorial, add instant charm and texture.
  • **Round Craft Foam/Construction Paper:** Cut out smaller circles from contrasting colors of craft foam or construction paper.
  • **Paint:** Simply paint a contrasting circle onto your chosen eye base for a smooth, minimalist look.
  • **Buttons:** Large, decorative buttons can create a unique, whimsical iris.
  • **Fabric Circles:** Cut out circles from felt or other fabrics for a softer feel.
• **For the Pupil/Smallest Part of the Eye:**
  • **Black Beads:** As demonstrated, black beads are perfect for a bright, central pupil.
  • **Paint/Marker:** A dot of black paint or a permanent marker can create a crisp pupil.
  • **Sequins/Glitter:** Add a touch of sparkle with a large sequin or a dab of glue covered in glitter.
  • **Small Buttons/Googly Eyes:** Tiny buttons or even googly eyes can provide a playful, animated look.

Displaying Your Owl Wreath: Hanging Solutions for Every Space

Given that this owl wreath is crafted using a foam wreath form, its hanging method differs slightly from those made with wire or grapevine bases. Foam forms are lightweight but require a secure attachment point to prevent damage. Here are several effective ways to hang your beautifully crafted owl wreath, ensuring it stays firmly in place while enhancing your decor:

• **Ribbon Loop Method (Recommended):** The most straightforward and aesthetically pleasing method is to use a length of sturdy ribbon. Loop the ribbon around the top section of the wreath, positioning it discreetly behind the owl’s eyes. Tie the ends together to form a hanging loop. This loop can then be placed over a standard door hook, a decorative wall hook, or a wreath hanger. This method distributes the weight evenly and is less likely to damage the foam.
• **Traditional Wreath Hanger:** A classic over-the-door wreath hanger can work effectively. Simply slide the hanger underneath the wreath, positioning it so that the top curve of the hanger nestles securely beneath the owl’s chin or lower beak area. The lightweight nature of the foam form makes this an easy and versatile option.
• **Picture Frame Hook (Rear Attachment):** For a more discreet hanging solution, you can carefully hot glue a small picture frame hook or a metal D-ring to the back of the wreath form, ensuring it’s placed where it won’t be visible from the front. Reinforce the glue with a piece of felt or extra burlap for added stability. This allows you to hang the wreath directly onto a nail or screw in the wall.
• **Twine or Fishing Line:** A loop of jute twine or even clear fishing line can be discreetly hot-glued to the top back of the wreath. If using twine, it can blend with the rustic aesthetic. Fishing line offers an almost invisible hanging solution, making your owl appear to float.
• **Direct Nail/Pin Insertion (for Styrofoam):** Since the base is styrofoam, you might be able to simply push a long, sturdy decorative pin or the head of a nail directly into the foam between the wrapped burlap and into the wall or door. This can be effective for very lightweight wreaths in low-traffic areas, but always test for stability and avoid if heavy winds or bumps are expected.

Always consider the weight of your finished wreath and the surface it will hang on before choosing your method to ensure both stability and longevity.

Weathering the Elements: Outdoor vs. Indoor Display

The question of whether your burlap owl wreath can endure outdoor fall weather is nuanced. Many front door wreaths are not designed for direct exposure to harsh weather conditions, as prolonged wetness or intense sun can compromise their appearance and integrity. However, with some considerations, outdoor display is certainly possible.

• **Protected Outdoor Spaces:** If your front door is shielded by a porch, awning, or storm door, your burlap owl wreath should fare quite well. These protective covers will prevent direct rain, heavy snowfall, and strong winds from impacting the wreath, significantly extending its lifespan and maintaining its fresh appearance. In such conditions, the occasional dampness from humidity or mist will likely dry out without causing lasting damage.
• **Unprotected Outdoor Spaces:** For homes with doors directly exposed to severe weather, strong winds, or no overhead protection, keeping this wreath exclusively for indoor display might be the best option. The primary concern is the burlap ribbon itself. While the foam form, eyes, and beak are relatively resistant to moisture, burlap, being a natural fiber, can look less appealing when wet. It may temporarily sag, wrinkle, or appear discolored until it thoroughly dries. Repeated cycles of wetting and drying could eventually lead to fading or even mold if not properly aired out.
• **Material Durability:** The foam wreath form itself is quite resilient to moisture, and elements like foam paper wings and plastic lids for eyes won’t be easily damaged by rain. The main factor is the fabric wrap. If you’re using synthetic ribbons or weather-treated fabrics as alternatives to burlap, their outdoor durability might be higher.

Ultimately, the decision is a personal one, weighing your local climate against your desired display location. For maximum longevity and pristine appearance, indoor display is always the safest bet. However, if you have a well-protected outdoor area, your charming burlap owl can certainly greet guests at your doorstep with confidence.

Project Overview

This simple and rewarding craft takes minimal time and budget, making it perfect for a quick afternoon project or a fun group activity.

• Yield: 1 Rustic Burlap Wrapped Owl Wreath
• Active Time: Approximately 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Estimated Cost: Around $2 (if using dollar store supplies and items from your stash)

Materials Needed

• Foam wreath form (10-inch recommended)
• Brown burlap ribbon (approx. 9 ft per spool, multiple may be needed depending on width and wreath size)
• Brown or maroon foam paper (for beak and wings)
• Two large bottle or jar lids (e.g., baby food jar lids, condiment lids for eye bases)
• Raffia (natural or colored)
• Green ribbon or twine (for eye embellishment and hanging)
• Black beads (for pupils)
• Fake sunflowers (small ones for eye centers)

Tools Needed

• Scissors
• Hot glue gun
• Hot glue stick

How to Make a Charming Burlap Owl Wreath: Step-by-Step

Follow these easy steps to bring your adorable burlap owl wreath to life. Remember, creativity is key, so feel free to adapt and personalize as you go!

1. Prepare the Wreath Base: Begin by securing one end of your chosen burlap ribbon to the foam wreath form using a small dab of hot glue. Ensure the glue is firm. Once attached, start wrapping the ribbon snugly around the entire wreath form. Overlap the ribbon slightly with each pass to guarantee that the foam form is completely concealed, creating a uniform and textured base. Continue wrapping until the entire form is covered, then trim the ribbon and secure the end with another dot of hot glue. Set your wrapped wreath aside.

   

2. Continue Wrapping (if needed): If your first roll of burlap ribbon wasn’t enough to completely cover the foam form, simply glue the end of the first roll and then attach the beginning of a new roll of burlap, continuing the wrapping process exactly as before. Ensure a seamless transition between rolls for a professional finish. Once fully wrapped, secure the final end with hot glue.

   

3. Prepare the Raffia for Eyes: Take your raffia and use scissors to cut approximately 20 individual lengths, each about 4 inches long. These strands will create the feathery texture around the owl’s eyes.

   

4. Create the Eye Base (Part 1): Select one of your bottle caps or jar lids. Turn it over so the inside (the top of the lid) is facing upwards. Begin applying hot glue and carefully attaching the cut pieces of raffia in a criss-cross pattern. Layer them until the entire surface of the lid is covered, allowing the excess raffia to extend and hang off the sides, forming a fluffy perimeter. This creates the “feathery” look around the owl’s pupils.

   

5. Create the Eye Base (Part 2): Carefully turn the raffia-covered lid over. Gently pull the hanging raffia strands downwards and inwards, pressing them against the sides of the lid so they point towards the empty, open side of the lid. This neatly tucks the raffia and defines the eye shape.

6. Secure the Raffia: Apply hot glue around the edges of the lid, on the inside, to firmly secure all the raffia strands in place. This prevents them from unraveling and gives the eye a finished, durable edge.

   

7. Add Ribbon Embellishment (Optional): For an extra touch of color and security, take a small length of green ribbon or twine and wrap it around the outside perimeter of the raffia, near the edge of the lid. Secure it with a tiny drop of hot glue. This adds a nice decorative detail and further holds the raffia in place.

8. Trim the Raffia: Using your scissors, carefully trim the ends of the raffia to an even length, aiming for about 1 inch extending beyond the bottom edge of the lid. This creates a neat, uniform fringe around the eye.

   

9. Prepare the Pupils: Take two fake paper sunflowers. Gently remove any unnecessary plastic stems or backings. Apply a small dot of hot glue to the very center of each sunflower and carefully place a black bead onto each glue dot, creating the owl’s pupils. Press firmly to ensure they adhere well.

   

10. Assemble the Eyes: Now, glue one of the sunflower-and-bead assemblies inside each of the raffia-covered lids. Position the sunflower centrally within the lid to create the complete owl eye. Press gently until the glue sets. You now have two complete, charming owl eyes! Set them aside while you prepare the rest of the wreath.

    

11. Cut the Beak: From your brown or maroon foam paper, cut out a simple triangle shape. This will form the owl’s beak. Adjust the size to fit proportionally with your wreath and eye bases.

12. Attach the Beak: Position the foam paper triangle onto the burlap-covered wreath, in the upper-middle section, with the pointed edge facing downward. Apply hot glue to the back of the beak and firmly press it onto the wreath. This creates the foundational facial feature for your owl.

    

13. Attach the Eyes: Carefully position the two assembled owl eyes onto the wreath, directly above the foam beak. Place them side-by-side, ensuring they are evenly spaced and centered above the beak. Apply generous amounts of hot glue to the back of each eye and press them firmly onto the burlap-covered wreath. Hold in place until the glue completely dries, securing the eyes and defining your owl’s face.

    

14. Cut the Wings: Take a piece of foam paper (the same color as your beak, or a contrasting one for a creative twist) and fold it in half. On the back, trace a wing shape – think of a stylized teardrop or a gentle curve with a slightly pointed end. Cut out the traced shape while the paper is folded; this will give you two identical, symmetrical wings.

    

15. Attach the Wings: Apply hot glue to the inner, straight edge of each foam paper wing. Carefully attach one wing to each side of the wreath, positioning them slightly below the eyes. Angle them slightly upwards and outwards to give your owl a sense of movement and dimension. Press firmly until the glue sets.

    

16. Display Your Creation: Congratulations! Your rustic burlap-wrapped owl wreath is now complete and ready to be admired. Choose your preferred hanging method (as discussed in the “How Should I Hang This Owl Wreath?” section) and display your charming owl on your front door, a wall, or above your mantle. Enjoy the cozy, whimsical touch it brings to your home decor!

    

Note: You can use any color burlap ribbon you have on hand, or choose an alternative material from the suggestions above to truly make this wreath your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors for the beak, wings, and eye embellishments to match various seasons or themes!

Tips for a Perfect Owl Wreath

• Gather All Supplies First: Before starting, lay out all your materials and tools. This makes the crafting process smoother and more enjoyable.
• Work on a Protected Surface: Hot glue can be messy. Use a craft mat or newspaper to protect your work area from glue drips.
• Test Glue on Scraps: If you’re using alternative materials, test a small piece with hot glue to ensure proper adhesion before applying it to the main wreath.
• Even Wrapping: For a polished look, try to wrap your burlap or fabric strips as evenly as possible, maintaining consistent tension and overlap.
• Symmetry for Features: When attaching the eyes and wings, step back frequently to check for symmetry and balance. A slight adjustment can make a big difference in your owl’s expression.
• Customization is Key: Don’t be afraid to deviate from the exact instructions. Use different colored foam paper for the wings, add glitter, or incorporate small berries or leaves for seasonal flair.

More DIY Wreaths for Every Season

Wreaths are a fantastic way to welcome guests, celebrate holidays, and add a personal touch to your home decor. They offer a unique blend of simplicity and stunning visual impact, capable of transforming any room into a warm and inviting space. If you’re as passionate about creating beautiful wreaths as we are, explore these other favorite DIY wreath tutorials. Bookmark, pin, or print them to add more handmade charm to your front door or mantle throughout the year!

• Stunning Paper Chrysanthemum Flower Wreath
• Rustic Fringed Old Book Page Wreath
• Easy Origami Old Book Page Wreath
• How to Make an Elegant Nautical Door Wreath

Finished Project Gallery

This charming owl wreath makes a fantastic addition to a child’s nursery, especially one decorated with an owl theme, adding a whimsical and loving handmade touch!

So pretty and thoughtfully crafted, it also serves as a wonderful, heartfelt gift for friends and loved ones, perfect for housewarmings, birthdays, or just because!

We hope you enjoy crafting your very own rustic burlap owl wreath. Share your creations and let this adorable owl bring joy and character to your home!