How to Make Dried Orange Garland with Bows

Learn how easy it is to make a dried orange garland with a few simple elements that’s versatile for fall and winter!

I’m a big fan of using natural elements as home decor. For example, I have a grapevine wreath I keep up all year because it’s super pretty and it can be decorated for every season. When I can I like to bring in dried florals, lots of natural wood and even pinecones in the fall and winter. A great way to add a pop of color is to incorporate dried fruits into seasonal decor. Fruits like persimmons, apples, oranges, blood oranges and others dry really beautifully.

A dried orange garland is a classic addition to not only fall decor, but also Christmas and winter decor. They can be made using simple elements like dried oranges (obviously), some twine, ribbon bows, faux florals, sprigs of fresh evergreen and so much more. The dried orange garland can be strung across your fireplace, hung on a wall or added to pieces of furniture. You can also layer this garland others too, like a cranberry or popcorn garland.

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FAQs

How do you dry orange slices for decor?

I always use my oven to dry orange slices. First, thinly slice navel oranges, then place them on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake the slices at 200°F for several hours until they’re completely dry. Be sure to occasionally turn the slices over to make sure they are drying evenly and remove them as they dry. You can also use a traditional dehydrator or air fryer if you have them. Both work just as great and may even be a little quicker.

Will dried oranges go bad?

As long as the orange slices are completely dried, they will last for years, maybe even indefinitely if they’re stored properly and not exposed to moisture. When they’re not being used, I recommend storing them separately in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. I like to store mine in either a gallon bag or mason jar.

Do dried oranges attract bugs?

If the dried oranges still contain moisture, they may attract bugs since bugs are drawn to food. However, as long as the oranges are completely dry and stored properly, they should remain mold and bug free.

Materials

Oranges: To make dried orange garlands, I prefer to use large naval oranges. They’re generally inexpensive and give you several slices per orange. You can also use blood oranges, as they’ll give you a darker end result.

Twine: You can use traditional brown twin, white cotton twine, colored twine or yarn of any kind to string the oranges and create a garland. I prefer to use a heavier weight twine or yarn as it holds the weight of the oranges better.

Ribbon: It’s fun to jazz up your dried orange garland with some bows or strips of ribbon. For a warmer, cozier feel, I chose velvet ribbon in various colors. It has a softer look compared to traditional ribbon. I found mine at Hobby Lobby, but you can find it at other places. I recommend purchasing your ribbon when it’s on sale to get the most bang for your buck!

Dried or Faux Florals: Dried or faux florals, dried spices like star anise, and other dried fruits like cranberries are a great way to add a bit more to your garland.

Wooden Beads: Wooden beads paired with orange slices are a classic way to display your orange garland and can be painted or stained to fit your aesthetic.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure here for further information.

How to Make a Dried Orange Garland

TOOLS YOU MAY NEED

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Hot glue gun

MATERIALS

• Orange slices
• Twine
• Ribbon (optional)
• Glue sticks

DIRECTIONS

How to Dry Orange Slices

Preheat the oven to 200°F, then using a sharp knife, cut oranges into thin slices.

Place them onto a parchment lined baking sheet. Pat dry if you choose.

Bake the orange slices for 4-6 hours, flipping them every 30-60 minutes, until they are completely dry.

How to Make Dried Orange Garland

Thread a yarn needle with twine, then place the yarn needle through the front side of an orange slice.

Pull the twine through and poke the yarn needle back through the orange on the opposite side.

Continue adding dried orange slices until you have your desired length and look.

How to Make Easy Bows

Cut a length of your ribbon of choice to around 24″, then wrap the end of the ribbon around your middle finger twice.

Move your fingers apart and wrap the ribbon around your thumb 2-3 times.

Wrap the remaining ribbon around the middle, feed the end in the loop and make a knot. Be sure to pull it tight.

Remove the bow from your finger and allow the extra to fall out to create the other tail. Then trim the ends if needed.

How to Finish a Dried Orange Garland with Bows

After all the dried orange slices are strung onto the twine, add a dot of hot glue to the left side of one orange and the right side of the orange slice before it.

Add the bow and press gently to secure.

Hang your finished dried orange garland.

NOTES

• Dry orange slices in the oven, the air fryer or dehydrator, but be sure they are completely dry before using and storing them.
• Larger orange varieties like naval, cara cara or blood oranges work best for this homemade dried orange garland.
• Jazz up your garland with bows (like I did), wooden beads, ribbon, faux or dried flowers and/or greenery.
• 2-3 large oranges made roughly a 3 foot garland.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR MORE SEASONAL PROJECTS?

Looking for more seasonal DIY projects like this dried orange garland? Check these out!

• How to Make a Fall Doormat
• DIY Terra Cotta Pumpkins
• Fall Simmer Pot Recipe
• Faux Metal Jack-O-Lantern

Did you enjoy making a dried orange garland? If you did, tag me on Instagram (@thesimplehomeplace) to show me your own recreation!