The wreath, one of the most popular holiday decorations, is gaining strength as a 12-month adornment.

Fall is the ideal to time for craft-minded folks to make their own wreaths, experts say.

"All the elements are available in your yard," said Joe Jumper, owner of Clay Pot, a floral and gift shop in Riverview.

"If you are starting from scratch the easiest base to use is a grapevine wreath," Mr. Jumper said. "It is sturdy and you can attach items to it without having to worry about your wreath falling apart.

"If you are planning to make a wreath for the holidays, I suggest purchasing a fresh, mixed-green wreath from a florist, nursery or Christmas tree lot. You can use the same methods for both a grapevine wreath or fresh-mix pine wreath"

Mr. Jumper offers the following tips:

FIVE TIPS

1. Start with a sturdy base. Or, to save time, use an existing base. Starting with a metal frame is difficult and takes time. Required tools include a florist wire, pliers, scissors, simple ribbon and a glue gun.

2. Look for natural items in your yard. Items to look for in your yard: pine cones, magnolia leaves and pods, nandina and pyracantha berries, dried hydrangeas, sweet gum balls, hemlock, long-needle pine branches and sticks, bird nests and mosses.

3. Use the mosses to blend the elements you are using and also to hide your mechanics. Don't be afraid to make your wreath loose, airy and a little crazy. Don't go overboard with ribbon. If you are creating a natural wreath, hang it from your door with a single strap of ribbon to the top of your door. Brown, persimmon, and pomegranate are great ribbon colors for fall that work well into the holidays.

4. Be creative. Tweak an element with spray paint, a crooked branch, and add a nest.

5. If you have an artificial wreath that has lost its luster, spruce it up by adding fresh greens and a mix of pines.

Open house

The Clay Pot will hold its Holiday Open House on Nov. 5-7, at 1311 Hanover St. A preview party will be held on Nov. 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. The public is invited. For more information, call 265-2007 or visit dirtfromtheclaypot.com.