Create a beautiful dried orange garland in a few easy steps. Young kids can help string together dried oranges and cranberries with this eco-friendly decoration.
Updated November 2024
If you’re looking for a low-waste, clutter-free option for holiday decoration, then this dried orange and cranberry garland is the perfect solution!
I love how this project can involve the whole family from start to finish, creating bursts of seasonal beauty and lovely holiday memories.
How to Make a Dried Orange Garland
MATERIALS
- 3 (or more) large navel oranges
- Fresh cranberries
- Knife
- Cookie sheets
- Lint free cloth
- Parchment paper
- Thread
- Large embroidery needles (these won’t prick fingers!)
Time needed: 3 hours and 30 minutes
INSTRUCTIONS
- First preheat oven
Preheat oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut oranges into slices
Slice your oranges in about ⅛- ¼ inch sections, then pat as dry as you can with a cloth.
- Spread orange slices out on baking sheet
Place your orange slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake oranges
Start to bake the oranges in a preheated oven for about 2 ½ hours. Flip the oranges halfway through the bake time. (If some begin to brown, remove them from the oven and continue to bake the rest.
I’ve found that baking time can vary widely so just keep checking! Once they are finished baking, let the orange slices cool completely.
- String garland
Use a large embroidery needle and thread to string dried orange slices in your desired pattern.
If you’d like, you can string cranberries on with the dried oranges. I love the look of the dried oranges and cranberries together! The fresh cranberries, however, will not last as long as the dried orange slices, and will shrivel after about a week. At that time, you can move your fruit garlands to an outdoor tree for the birds to enjoy or simply compost the shriveled berries.
I don’t mind the short life of these garlands as it gives us a chance to remake them every year!
More Natural Christmas Decorations for Kids
- How to Make a Natural Christmas Wreath for Kids
- 11 Salt Dough Ornaments for Kids
- How to Make Cinnamon Ornaments for Kids
- 5 Natural Christmas Decorations for Kids
- 20 Homemade Christmas Ornaments the Whole Family Can Make
- How to Make a Homemade Advent Calendar for Kids
Want even more creative ideas?
Check out our Holiday Creativity pack!
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