A small harvest broom is an old-feeling object made with ordinary materials. Hang it inside a door or above a seasonal table. This is decorative, not a working broom, and its symbolism can be as spiritual or simple as you choose.

Project details

  • Skill: Beginner
  • Time: 45 to 75 minutes
  • Cost: $5 to $20
  • Size: 18 to 24 inches

Materials

  • 18 to 30 dry twigs and one sturdy branch for the handle
  • Rosemary, cedar, or another safe evergreen
  • 2 or 3 fully dried orange slices
  • 24-gauge floral wire, jute twine, ribbon, and an optional brass bell
  • Pruning shears, wire cutters, gloves, and eye protection

Instructions

  1. Prepare. Gather only where permitted. Shake twigs outdoors, inspect for insects, wipe dry, and cure several days.
  2. Sort. Put the longest pieces in the center and shorter pieces outside for a tapered shape.
  3. Make bundles. Wire six to eight twigs together. Build three or four small bundles.
  4. Attach the handle. Arrange bundles around the bottom 5 inches of the handle. Wrap wire eight to ten times, pulling firmly. Shake gently and reinforce movement.
  5. Add greenery. Tuck small herb stems around the neck. Wire each one because fresh herbs shrink as they dry.
  6. Cover the wire. Wrap the neck tightly with twine for 1 to 2 inches and hide the knot beneath the wraps.
  7. Decorate. Wire on dried orange slices and a light bell. Finish with ribbon and a strong hanging loop.

A threshold intention

Name what you want your home to welcome this season, perhaps rest, honesty, laughter, nourishment, or better boundaries. Then name what you are ready to stop carrying through the door. This is personal symbolism, not a claim that the object controls events.

Safety

Wear eye protection when cutting brittle twigs. Keep dried plants away from flame, heaters, pets, and exterior weather.