What You’ll Need
- Fresh oranges (4-5 for a longer garland)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet, parchment paper, and/or wire rack
- Paper towels
- Needle and thread (or twine)
- Optional: Ornament hooks
Steps to Create Your Garland
Slice the Oranges:Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C). Slice oranges into thin, even rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure they dry evenly.
Remove Excess Moisture:
Place the orange slices on a layer of paper towels and gently pat them dry. Removing extra moisture helps speed up the drying process in the oven.
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or use a wire rack for quicker drying. Arrange the orange slices in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake for 3-4 hours, flipping halfway through. Keep the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. The slices are ready when they are dry but still pliable.
String Them Up:
While the slices are still flexible, use a needle and thread to string them together. They’re easier to handle before fully hardening, and they will continue to firm up once on the garland. If you prefer, use ornament hooks to hang them individually.
Style Your Garland:
Drape the garland on your mantel, tree, or windows, or use it as a table centerpiece.
How Long Will It Last?
With proper care, dried orange garland can last for years. Mine has stayed in great shape for three seasons! Store it in a dry, cool place to enjoy it year after year.
Happy crafting!
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