For this seasonal wreath peppercorns were wired to a twig backing and sprayed with florists paint to enhance their colour.

The wreath was finished with varnish to preserve the effect.

You'll need
Wreath backing 25cm in diameter
One large bunch of peppercorns
14 inch (35.5 cm) long 22-gauge wires
Brown florists tape
Wire cutters or old scissors
Florists spray paint: cranberry (optional)
Small flat-nosed pliers
Spray varnish
Fishing line

Here's how
1 Divide the peppercorns into small bunches with about three stems in each bunch. Fold one wire in half with a loop in the centre. Place the loop at the back of a bunch and twist one end of the wire around the stems and the other end of the wire. Make a few tight turns. Twist the two wires together. Wire all bunches.

2 Cover all the wired stems with florists tape. (If you have not used it before, practise on a length of wire before tackling the peppercorns. ) Tear off a length of tape and pull it about 2-3 cm from the end. This part will become thin and transparent and will stick to itself. Place the tape on the wires of one bunch, twist a bit to secure it and then twist the wire with your right hand. Pull the tape 2-3 cm at a time with your left hand, and twist with the right until you need to pull the tape again. If the tape breaks, put it back on the wire and pull and twist as before.

3 Cover a few extra wires with tape and cut in half. Combine three bunches in a tan shape. Wire them together using a half wire. Cut the wire stems to 5 cm. Make 12 -13 large bunches. If desired, spray the peppercorns with florists paint to get a stronger colour.

4 Cover more wires with florists tape (two for each bunch}. Place a bunch of peppercorns at the centre top of the wreath. Take a covered wire and place it on the neck of the bunch and around the wreath backing. Twist it together and tighten with pliers. Place a second wire on this bunch and tighten as before. Repeat with other bunches, spacing them so that the whole base is covered.

5 Spray varnish the finished wreath. Tie on fishing line for hanging.

Source: Better Homes and Gardens Making Christmas Decorations1999