Dried Orange Garland DIY: Easy Holiday Craft

The Outdoor Apothecary is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Make this dried orange garland for Christmas or Yule to use in any other winter decoration ideas. By following the steps listed below, you’ll turn ordinary oranges into something extraordinary. The garland can be hung on a mantle, above a window, over doorways or on railings for added holiday cheer.

The Tradition of Oranges at Christmas

You know, when I was a kid, I used to find a juicy orange in my Christmas stocking every year. Back then, I thought it was just a quirky thing my mom did, a unique family touch to our holiday celebrations. It was like our own little tradition – every Christmas morning, there it was, a bright, sweet orange nestled among the other goodies. But as I grew up and started exploring more about traditions and their origins, I realized there was so much more to this simple fruit. Turns out, this charming practice of gifting oranges is tied to ancient Yule celebrations and the winter solstice and can be traced back to several legends and practices.

One of the most popular stories is associated with Saint Nicholas, or Santa Claus. It’s said that St. Nicholas, known for his generosity, once helped a poor man who couldn’t afford dowries for his three daughters. St. Nicholas secretly tossed bags of gold through the man’s window, and these bags are said to have landed in stockings or shoes left by the fire. This gold is often represented by oranges in Christmas traditions.

There’s also a more practical angle to this tradition. Oranges were once a rare and expensive treat, especially in colder climates. They became a symbol of luxury and a special treat during the winter months when fresh fruit was scarce. Receiving an orange was a sign of good fortune and a luxury to be savored.

In terms of Yule, a festival celebrated by the Germanic peoples before being absorbed into Christian traditions, oranges were valued for their bright, sun-like appearance. They symbolized the return of the sun during the darkest time of the year. This celebration was all about welcoming back the light and warmth, and oranges perfectly symbolized this.

What You Need To Make A DIY Dried Orange Garland

Supplies:

Oranges: Pick out some fresh, vibrant oranges for this DIY garland. Their bright colors and natural fragrance will really bring that cozy Christmas scent into your home.
Dehydrator: Using a dehydrator is a great way to dry your orange slices evenly and efficiently, preserving their color and aroma perfectly.
Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Knife: This is key for getting those nice, even orange slices. It makes the whole look of your garland much more put-together.
Baking Sheet & Parchment Paper: If you choose to use your oven instead of a dehydrator, you’ll need these. They’ll keep your orange slices from sticking and make the drying process a breeze.
Large Needle like a Yarn Needle: You’ll need this to poke small holes in your dried orange slices. It’s a simple but essential step for stringing them into a garland.
Twine or Thin Ribbon: Pick some twine or a thin ribbon in a color you love. This is what you’ll use to tie all those lovely dried orange slices together into a festive garland.

How Many Oranges Do I Need To Make A Full Garland?

You can make a nice long garland with 5 medium to large sized oranges.

How to Make a Simple Dried Orange Garland: Tutorial

Preheat Oven

First things first, preheat your oven. You’ll want it at a low temperature, around 200 °F (93 °C). This low heat ensures that the oranges dry out without burning, retaining their beautiful color.

Slice and Prep the Oranges

Now, it’s time to slice your oranges. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, cut them into 1/8 to 1/4 thick slices. This thickness is perfect for ensuring they dry evenly without becoming too brittle. Once sliced, gently blot the oranges with paper towels. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture, which will speed up the drying process.

Dry Orange Slices in the Oven

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and arrange your orange slices in a single layer. The parchment paper is a lifesaver—it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and let the magic happen. This process can take about 2–4 hours, but keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. You’re looking for the slices to be thoroughly dried yet still vibrant. Move to a cooling rack after removing from the oven.

Dry Slices Using a Dehydrator

If you have a dehydrator, you can use it instead of the oven. Lay the orange slices on the dehydrator racks, ensuring they don’t overlap. Set your dehydrator according to its instructions for drying fruits (mine is 135°). Using a dehydrator can be a more energy-efficient method and often yields more consistent results.

Stringing the Orange Slices

Once your oranges are completely dried, it’s time to transform them into a garland. Using a large needle, thread twine or a thin ribbon through the slices. You can space them as you like, or add knots in between for a rustic look. And voilà! Your dried orange garland is ready to be hung, bringing a natural, festive feel to any space.

This simple DIY project not only adds a beautiful, natural element to your holiday decor but also fills your home with a lovely citrus scent. Dried oranges can last for a long time, making this garland not just a seasonal decoration, but a charming reminder of nature’s gifts all year round.

Are there other ways to use dried orange slices?

Dried orange slices are incredibly versatile and add a warm, natural touch to many decorations. Here are a few of my favorite ways to incorporate them:

Seasonal Wreath Making: I love adding dried orange slices to my seasonal wreaths. They provide a beautiful, rustic contrast when paired with greenery and wooden beads. The beads and oranges together create a lovely, earthy vibe that’s just perfect for any door or wall.
Embellishment on My Yearly Yule Log: Placing dried orange slices on my Yule log adds a touch of natural beauty. Their vibrant color complements the log’s natural tones, and they bring a hint of the outdoors into this traditional holiday centerpiece.
Christmas Ornaments: Turning dried orange slices into Christmas ornaments is a fun and simple craft. They look stunning hanging from the tree, especially when combined with cinnamon sticks or star anise for a more festive feel.
Winter Decor Centerpiece: I like to arrange dried orange slices in a bowl with pinecones, cinnamon sticks, cranberries, and bits of nature. It creates a charming winter decor centerpiece that’s both visually appealing and fragrant. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little potpourri among the mix to enhance the scent.
Addition to Other Christmas Decor: Dried orange slices can also be used to accentuate other Christmas decorations. Whether it’s adorning garlands, adding a pop of color to table settings, or being part of a holiday potpourri mix, they bring a cozy, festive look to any space.

These natural, fragrant slices are a wonderful way to add a bit of traditional charm and warmth to your holiday decor. It’s amazing how such a simple element can elevate the overall ambiance of your home during the festive season.

Can I use other fruits to make a dried fruit garland?

Absolutely! Creating a dried fruit garland isn’t limited to just oranges. Using a variety of fruits can add a stunning array of colors, textures, and fragrances to your garland. Here are some great options to consider:

Lemons and Limes: Just like oranges, lemons, and limes dry beautifully and add a fresh, citrusy aroma. Their bright yellow and green hues create a vibrant contrast in the garland.
Apples: Thinly sliced apples dry into lovely, translucent shapes. They add a traditional, rustic feel to the garland. Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon on them before drying can enhance their natural fragrance.
Pears: Pears can offer a softer, more subtle color palette to your garland. They have a delicate, sweet aroma when dried and provide an elegant look.
Grapefruit: If you love the idea of citrus but want a different color, grapefruits are a great choice. They provide a pinkish hue and a zesty scent to the mix.
Star Fruit (Carambola): For a truly unique addition, star fruit slices create beautiful star-shaped pieces when dried. They’re not only visually striking, but also add a tropical twist.
Kiwi: Thinly sliced kiwi dries into lovely, bright green rounds with an intriguing pattern. They can add a dash of exotic flair to your garland.

Remember, the key to a successful dried fruit garland is to slice the fruits uniformly and ensure they are thoroughly dried to prevent any potential molding. You can use an oven or a dehydrator, just like with the oranges. Mixing and matching different fruits can result in a beautifully diverse and festive garland, perfect for the holiday season or any time of year when you want to bring a bit of nature’s bounty indoors.

How long will a dried orange slice garland last?

A dried orange garland can last a surprisingly long time when made and stored properly. Typically, if kept in the right conditions, it can last for several years. However, there are a few factors that will determine its longevity:

Drying Process: The key to a long-lasting garland is thoroughly drying the orange slices. Any residual moisture can lead to mold or decay. Ensure that the slices are completely dry before assembling the garland.
Storage: When not in use, store your garland in a cool, dry place. Avoid damp areas, as moisture can rehydrate the slices and lead to spoilage. Wrapping the garland in tissue paper and placing it in a cardboard box or airtight container can help protect it from moisture and dust.
Environmental Factors: Direct sunlight can fade the vibrant color of the oranges over time, and extreme temperature fluctuations can cause them to become brittle. Display your garland in a spot where it’s protected from these elements.

Remember, the charm of a dried orange garland is in its natural, rustic appearance. Even as it ages, it retains a certain beauty, with its colors mellowing into a lovely, vintage look. With good care, your garland can be a festive and aromatic part of your holiday decorations for years to come!

Why This Tradition Matters

For me, there’s something incredibly special about homemade holiday decorations, particularly the simplest ones. In a world where there’s a constant rush to keep up with the latest trends and influencers on Instagram, I find solace and joy in traditions like making a dried orange garland.

This practice is much more than just creating a decorative item; it’s about embracing the true spirit of the holidays. It’s a reminder that the most heartfelt and memorable decorations are those crafted with love and care. When I weave together these fragrant orange slices, it’s not just about adorning my home; it’s a chance to slow down, engage in meaningful moments with family and friends, and soak in the genuine essence of the season. This tradition, in its simplicity and warmth, captures the very heart of what festive celebrations are all about for me.

More Holiday Inspiration

If you’ve enjoyed learning about this delightful dried orange garland, I’ve got a whole array of other simple, homemade holiday crafts and gifts waiting for you to discover! Each of these projects is designed with the same love for nature and simplicity, perfect for adding a personal touch to your holiday season. Let’s keep the spirit of handcrafted holidays alive and cherish the joy of creating something truly unique.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.