Last Updated on June 4, 2025 by PorchLightReading
How to make dried orange garland for a stylish and classic holiday decoration. Easy and affordable weekend craft idea.
Can you hear it? Christmas songs are in the air and even though some might say it’s too early, I’m all in!
Normally, I hold off a little while but this year I have a list of crafts and DIY’s I’m hoping to make with the children. From gingerbread houses to holiday cards, it’s time to get organized. Before we know it the holiday will be right upon us and I’ll wish things hadn’t moved so fast.
So to get us in the festive spirit, we’re starting easy with DIY dried orange garland. And you’re going to love it.
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- Table of Contents: How to make dried orange garland
- Why you’ll love this project
- Materials list
- Step by step instructions
- Tips for the best dried orange garland
- Variations to try
- Storage directions
HOW TO MAKE DRIED ORANGE GARLAND
Dried orange garlands are a beautiful and natural way to add a pop of color to your to your holiday decor. With a few simple materials, you can create a stunning decoration that’s both easy and festive. The orange color and citrus fragrance bring a classic and elegant look to mantels, wreaths, Christmas trees, and more!
Plus, it’s a perfect DIY project that the whole family can enjoy making together.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS PROJECT
- Budget-Friendly- With just oranges and a bit of string, this garland is an affordable way to add to your holiday decor.
- Customizable- Add in other elements like cinnamon sticks or star anise for a more aromatic and and stunning garland.
- Timeless- This garland has a classic appeal that fits virtually into any holiday decor style.
- Family friendly- My children love a good craft project and with this DIY they can help create holiday decor for both the living room and their bedrooms!
MATERIALS LIST
- 5-7 Fresh oranges
- Sharp knife
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Twine or ribbon
- Needle for threading
- Optional ideas:
- Cinnamon sticks
- Star anise
- Ornaments, bells, wood beads
- Pine garland
- Other citrus such as lemons
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 200°F. This low temperature helps dry the oranges slowing and prevents them from burning.
Slice the oranges: Using a sharp knife, slice each orange thinly into approximately 1/4 inch rounds. Be sure to keep them uniform while slicing to help them dry evenly.
Arrange oranges on a baking sheet: Place a layer of parchment paper on a baking sheet and lay the oranges in a single layer. Making sure they do not overlap.
Bake the orange slices: Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping the slices halfway through the bake time. You’ll know when they are done by the oranges being dry to the touch and slightly translucent. Be sure to check on them periodically.
Allow to cool: Once fully dry, remove from oven and allow them to cool before handling.
Assemble your garland: Thread a large needle (or straightened ornament hook) with twine or ribbon, and carefully weave the needle through the top of each orange slice.
Hang your garland: Once all your slices are threaded, tie off the ends of twine and hang your garland where you’d like to add a touch of holiday warmth!
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TIPS FOR MAKING DRIED ORANGE GARLAND
- Choose fresh, firm oranges: Firm oranges make for neater slices, they dry more evenly and look better on the garland.
- Flip the slices: Flipping the slices halfway through the bake time helps prevent sticking and ensures even drying.
- Other citrus: You can also use lemons or limes to add more color and visual interest.
- Skip the needle and thread: Skip the needle and thread and attach them to the twine or ribbon using close pins instead!
VARIATIONS
Mix a bit of pine, rosemary, or eucalyptus to give your garland a touch of greenery.
Add it to compliment artificial pine garland and to give it more color and style.
Instead of making a garland with your orange slices, try using the slices to make ornaments for your Christmas tree by using ribbon.
STORAGE DIRECTIONS
- While dried orange garland is generally better for single use over the season, you can store them in an airtight container with gel packets to keep them dry.
- Keep your garland in a dry area as humidity can cause the slices to soften and mold.
- If you notice your garland is missing its fragrance, gently rub a few slices with citrus scented essential oils.
This weekend project is easy to do and a great craft to enjoy with the family on a cold winter afternoon. As the slices are drying in the oven, you can watch a holiday classic movie while sipping on some warm hot chocolate, before stringing up the garland to decorate your home.
Wishing you and your loved ones a very happy and healthy holiday season!
How to Make Dried Orange Garland
Equipment
- parchment paper
- twine or ribbon
- needle
Materials
- 5-7 oranges
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°F. This low temperature helps dry the oranges slowing and prevents them from burning.
- Using a sharp knife, slice each orange thinly into approximately 1/4 inch rounds. Be sure to keep them uniform in while slicing to help dry them evenly.
- Place a layer of parchment paper on a baking sheet and lay the oranges in a single layer. Make sure they do not overlap.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping each slice halfway through the bake time. You'll know when they are done by the oranges being dry to the touch and slightly translucent. Be sure to check on the periodically.
- Once fully dry, remove from oven and allow them to cool before handling.
- Thread a large needle with twine or ribbon, and carefully weave the needle through the top of each orange slice.
- Once all your slices or threaded, tie off the ends and twine and hang your garland where you'd like to add a touch of holiday warmth!
Notes
- Mix a bit of pine, rosemary, or eucalyptus to give your garland a touch of greenery.
- Add it to compliment artificial pine garland and to give it more color and style.
- Skip the needle and thread and attach them to the twine or ribbon using close pins instead!
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