- 04.08.2023 /
- Advent decoration /
- Decoration tips /
- DIY /
- Table decoration
November 2023. Candles and poinsettias (also known as the Christmas Star) create an atmospheric mood in the run-up to Christmas. Even more so when they come together, as in these Advent designs developed by the deco experts at Stars for Europe (SfE). Whether you’re after an on-trend, versatile, whimsical or dramatic look, these stellar DIY ideas for Advent are guaranteed to have something for everyone.
On-trend and natural: floating poinsettia kokedamas
Kokedamas are in vogue. These hip plant balls are everywhere in interior magazines and blogs, and they don’t stop at classic Advent displays either.
This fancy wreath stands out, not only because it dispenses with the usual fourth candle, but above all because of its floating moss balls containing bright red poinsettias. This unusual arrangement is easy to make in just a few steps.
You need a log slice, red mini poinsettias, moss, golden craft wire, three candle holders on spikes, three taper candles, thin wooden sticks, a pine branch, a cordless drill and a pair of secateurs.
Tip: The number of poinsettias needed depends on the size of the log slice.
Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Use the cordless drill to make holes for the candle holders and the wooden sticks in the log slice. You will place the kokedamas on the wooden sticks later, so make sure the holes are evenly distributed over the log slice.
Step 2: Insert the candle holders and wooden sticks into your pre-drilled holes.
Step 3: Remove the mini poinsettias from their pots, wrap the root balls with moss and secure it in place with the golden craft wire. Tip: Water the plants beforehand so the balls are moist.
Step 4: Gently push the poinsettia kokedamas onto the wooden sticks so they are level with each other.
Step 5: Decorate the arrangement with pine branches. If necessary, attach the branches to the candle holders with the craft wire to keep them in place . Finally, insert the candles into the candle holders and place the arrangement in a bright spot protected from draughts.
Tip: Either water the mini poinsettias gently from above with a small amount of water or remove the wrapped root balls and place them in a container with a little water every few days so they can soak it up. Drain well and replace on the wooden sticks.
Unconventional and versatile: Advent magic in a jar
Not in the mood for a classic Advent wreath?
This arrangement of candles and poinsettias in identical, decorative glass jars makes a lovely alternative and can be rearranged in different formations again and again.
The candles are in clay, placed in the jars and covered with moss. The poinsettias are planted straight into the jars.
Tip: When watering your plants, be careful to avoid waterlogging. I added this note to clarify how they can be rearranged.
A fun fairytale: Miniature landscape Advent wreath
This Advent design combines elements of a classic Advent wreath with an enchanted miniature landscape in a large vase.
Mini poinsettias, pine cones, moss and a deer figurine create a fairytale scene in the vase, in which a string of lights adds sparkling accents. Pine sprigs run from the bottom of the vase up to its rim.
Pieces of branches are attached there, giving support to slender white candles in hanging silver candle holders.
Generous and imposing: planted Advent bowl
A large bowl filled with poinsettias and candles makes a sumptuous Advent display that brings festive glamour to any room.
Packed waterproof clay or floral foam gives the candles the support they need in the centre of the bowl. Plant the poinsettias around the candles.
Space-saving and understated: Arrangements for calendar candles
Advent calendar candles are widely used in Scandinavian countries. The candles, which can be labelled with the numbers 1 to 24 or 1 to 4, burn down a little bit each day during Advent until only a stub is left on Christmas Eve. When space is at a premium, an arrangement with a calendar candle is a good alternative to the classic Advent wreath.
A decorative footed platter forms the basis for this Advent arrangement (far left) in gold and earthy shades. The apricot of the mini poinsettia creates a charming colour contrast and, together with the candle, is a real attention-grabber.
Tip: Wrapping the poinsettia’s root ball in moss looks beautiful and helps to supply the poinsettia with water, as the moss stores plenty of moisture. In the second arrangement, a calendar candle is placed in an urn vase filled with floral foam. Around the candle are cut poinsettias and dried flower stems.
Tip: Cut poinsettias will last up to two weeks in soaked floral foam if, immediately after cutting, the cut ends are immersed in hot water (about 60 °C) for a few seconds and then in cold water. Added to clarify which arrangement being referred to, as the images are next to one another.
Masterful: Advent wreath straight from the florist's shop
This artistic Advent wreath made of dried florals and cut red poinsettias is not easy to make yourself, if only because of the metal frame . As a decorative piece, it doesn’t use any pine foliage and skilfully bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. If you like this masterpiece, we recommend asking a good florist to make it in plenty of time before Advent begins.
You can find lots of information and many more ideas for decorating with poinsettias at https://starsforeurope.com.
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