The holidays are here, and I’m always looking for ways to make my home feel more cozy and nostalgic. I made this orange garland last Christmas and absolutely loved how it looked up on my fireplace mantle. It’s easy, affordable, and will add the perfect touch of old fashioned and rustic charm to your decor this year.

What you’ll need:

• Oranges (I used a mix of regular and blood oranges for a little bit of color variation)
• Twine
• Baking sheet and parchment paper
• Needle or small skewer

Step 1: Slice the Oranges

Preheat your oven to 200°F. Slice your oranges evenly, about ¼ inch thick. Try to keep them uniform so they dry at the same rate. Gently blot away any excess juice with a paper towel.

Step 2: Bake Low and Slow

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange your slices in a single layer. Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping every 30–45 minutes. They’re done when they look dry and translucent.

(Added bonus, your house will smell like a warm citrus candle — enjoy!)

Step 3: Cool and String

Let your dried oranges cool completely. Use a needle or skewer to poke a small hole near the top of each slice, then thread them onto your twine or ribbon. You can space them close together for a fuller look or leave gaps for a more minimal garland.

Step 4: Decorate and Enjoy

Hang your orange garland on a mantel, around a window, over a mirror, or weave it into greenery for a festive touch. You can also add touches like cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, or dried cranberries for extra texture and fragrance.

It’s as easy as that! The perfect craft to bring some warmth and a cottage core feel to your home this winter.

Happy holidays!