Things to Do With Popcorn: Christmas Wreath

Martha Stewart's site, back in 2004, was the first place I saw a popcorn wreath mentioned; the directions there are a bit sparse though.

You'll need a paper plate for each wreath, two to four quarts of plain popped popcorn, a needle and a spool of of clear 8lb fishing line or dental floss, and a bright ribbon or other festive item for decoration, and some glue with which to attach it to the finished wreath. Depending on where you wish to hang it, you might use fishing line, or another ribbon.

In very basic terms:

1. Cut the center out of the paper plate and discard it, leaving the rim. Use a sharp knife, or xacto to do this; not scissors, because you will want the rim of the plate preserved as the foundation of your wreath.
2. Tie one end of the line or floss to the plate.
3. String the popcorn on the thread, tying off the end.
4. Wind and wrap and twist the popcorn around the plate, layering it to completely cover the plate and insuring that there aren't any gaps. Expect to need two or three
5. Knot the end of the last strand on the back of the wreath.
6. Decorate the wreath with a bright bow or other festive touch.

• A pleasant variation involves alternating the popcorn with fresh raw cranberries; either on the same strand, or by making a "highlight" strand of cranberries that you twist in and around the popcorn.
• You can hang the wreath indoors, but keep in mind that hanging outdoors will provide a much appreciated winter feast for hungry birds.
• See this page for some helpful step-by-step popcorn wreath instructions.