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How to Make a Dried Orange Garland

by Anna Harpe
September 1, 2022
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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 October 2022

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.

orange garland pin

How to Make a Dried Orange Garland

MATERIALS

DIRECTIONS

Time needed: 3 hours and 30 minutes

  1. First preheat oven

    Preheat oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. Cut oranges into slices

    Slice your oranges in about ⅛- ¼ inch sections, then pat as dry as you can with a cloth.

    Cut oranges for garland_Anna Harpe

  3. Spread orange slices out on baking sheet

    Place your orange slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets.

    Orange slices on tray

  4. 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!

    sliced oranges for garland

  5. Cool oranges

  6. Let orange slices cool completely.
  7. String garland

    Use a large embroidery needle and thread to string dried orange slices and cranberries in your desired pattern.

    String cranberry garland for Christmas

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!

People Also Ask

  1. How long does a dried orange and cranberry garland last? If stored properly away from moisture, dried oranges will last indefinitely! The fresh cranberries will shrivel on the thread after about a week.
  2. Will a dried orange garland rot or attract bugs? Dried oranges will not rot or attract bugs. Compost cranberries as soon as they start to shrivel (or move to an outdoor tree)!
natural christmas wreath for kids_rachel withers
Photo by Rachel Withers

More Natural Christmas Decorations for Kids

Want even more creative ideas?

Check out our Holiday Creativity pack!

Let’s celebrate the holidays with all things crafty! Here are 53 pages full of our favorite drawing prompts, creative play ideas, art activities, and more!

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How to Make a Dried Orange Garland
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