There’s something so fulfilling about crafting with your kids: sneaking in slow, intentional moments, letting little hands explore, and creating something beautiful together. One of my favorite family crafts lately is making dried fruit wreaths — specifically with orange slices. It’s simple, natural, and smells like comfort. Plus, it’s a perfect project for bonding while doing something meaningful.
Why Dried Fruit Wreaths Are Trending — and Why They’re Perfect for Kids
- Natural & Nostalgic Vibes: Dried citrus (like oranges) has that warm, farmhouse feel that’s super in right now, but it’s not too fussy.
- Sustainable & DIY: Rather than buying plastic holiday decor, you’re using real fruit slices. It’s low waste, and kiddos love helping with the “nature + craft” combo.
- Sensory-Rich: Kids can touch the dried slices, smell them (especially when you add cinnamon or pine), and watch you build the wreath. It’s calming and hands-on.
- Flexible for Year-Round: While many do this as a holiday craft, you don’t have to. These can work on a front door in fall, winter, or even spring with the right greenery.
- Educational + Bonding: Your kids learn patience (drying fruit takes time), creativity (arranging slices), and fine motor skills (gluing or wiring pieces on).
What You’ll Need
(Kid-Friendly Supplies)
Here’s a list of easy-to-find materials, plus some Amazon picks to help you get started.
Amazon Supplies to Use
- Dried Orange Slices: 50‑piece pack for crafting / wreaths. Amazon
- Grapevine Wreath Form: Natural 18″ wreath base for building your design. Amazon
- Low Temp Mini Glue Gun: Safe for use on citrus and delicate craft items. Amazon
- Kids Mini Glue Gun Kit: Option with finger protectors and colored glue sticks. Amazon
Optional Supplies
- Citrus Ornament Crafting Kit — Includes dehydrated orange slices, cinnamon sticks, twine for garlands or wreaths.
- Dehydrated Orange Slice Craft Bag — 50 drilled slices, great for stringing or laying on a wreath form.
- Assorted Dried Citrus Fruit Slices — Mix of orange, lemon, grapefruit + more — perfect for variety.
- Wreath Making Accessories Kit – Dried Oranges — Comes with pinecones, apple slices, and more to layer into a wreath.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Wreath with Your Kids
- Dry (or Use Pre-Dried) Fruit
- If you’re drying your own: slice oranges about ¼″ thick, pat dry, and bake on a rack at 200°F for several hours, flipping slices occasionally.
- If you’re using pre-dried: skip ahead to assembling.
- Prepare Your Base
- Lay out your grapevine wreath form on a flat surface.
- Talk with your kids about where to place the orange slices. This is a great moment for their creativity.
- Glue or Wire the Slices
- Use a low-temp glue gun (adult should handle the gun).
- Press each slice gently to adhere. Add glue to the rind first for a more secure hold.
- Let the kids place slices while you handle the hot parts.
- Add Extra Natural Embellishments
- Tuck in cinnamon sticks, pinecones, sprigs of eucalyptus, or dried flowers. Many crafters love combining orange slices + greenery for visual texture.
- Secure with floral wire or glue as needed.
- Make a Hanger
- Use twine or ribbon to create a loop for hanging.
- Kids can help tie the bow or decorate the top of the wreath.
- Let It Set / Cure
- Allow glue to fully dry / set.
- Hang somewhere cozy, a door, window, or even on your wall.
Tips for Crafting Safely & Storing Thoughtfully
- Use low-temperature glue: This prevents citrus from burning / discoloring.
- Fully dehydrate fruit: If slices are moist, they can attract bugs.
- Seal if needed: Some crafters spray a light sealant (clear acrylic) to preserve slices long-term.
- Store in a cool, dry place: If you take the wreath down, wrap it gently in tissue / store in a box with silica gel or paper towels to keep moisture out.
- Supervise with kids: Let them do the creative parts, but take over the hot glue part.
Benefits of This Project for Families
- Quality Time: Working on a wreath gives you a few hours of focused, meaningful collaboration with your kids.
- Skill-Building: They learn about textures, planning, patience, and natural materials.
- Decor + Keepsake: The wreath becomes a decoration you made together, infused with memories (and scent).
- Eco-Friendly: Using real dried fruit is sustainable and beautiful, not just store-bought plastic decor.
Final Thoughts
Making a dried fruit wreath with your children isn’t just a craft. It’s a way to slow down and connect. Whether you’re decorating for the holidays or just creating a cozy, handmade piece for your home, this project offers beauty, scent, and sweet memories.
Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you choose to purchase—at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work
Christia DeShields 
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