Magnolia Leaves In Christmas Decorating

How to Make a Metallic-Finish Magnolia Leaf Wreath

We're obsessed with this gorgeous magnolia wreath—and our DIY instructions make it so easy to make! Metallic spray paint and a touch of gold leaf turn preserved leaves into a shimmering, metallic wreath you can show off all year long.

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Magnolia wreaths add an elegant touch to any room, but this shimmery, metallic version takes it up a notch and turns a leaf wreath into a work of art. Neutral metallics provide year-round elegance to an inexpensive fall mantel or fall front door. We opted for a mixed metallic color palette that really makes every leaf pop, but you could also go with an all-gold, silver or copper color scheme. It's your project; you make the call!

This wreath makes a great DIY gift, because metallics can be worked in to any holiday decor. Consider making more than wreath while you're crafting—that way you can give one and keep one for yourself!

metallic-painted magnolia leaves wreath hanging on striped wall

Supplies Needed

Preserved magnolia leaves (about 100)
Assorted metallic spray paints (gold, silver, copper, champagne)
Gold leaf
Adhesive sizing
Foam brush
Spray shellac
16-inch foam wreath
Wide gold ribbon
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
Scissors
Floral pins (optional)

How to Make a Metallic Magnolia Leaf Wreath

The key to making a Joanna Gaines-approved magnolia wreath is making sure all the leaves face in one direction, creating a soft swirl of leaves in a circular pattern. Just take your time and you'll end up with a look that's just as lux as the Gaines' signature faux magnolia wreath for a fraction of the price.

Step 1: Paint Magnolia Leaves

If you happen to have a magnolia tree (or access to one) this project will cost you next to nothing. Gather all the leaves you need straight from the source! But in order to make sure your wreath lasts, you need to preserve those freshly picked leaves. The best way to preserve magnolia leaves is to submerge them in a glycerine solution. Here's a great source for learning how to preserve magnolia leaves.

If you can't or don't want to preserve your own leaves, order a pack of 25 preserved leaves ($7, Amazon). When you're ready to get started divide the preserved magnolia leaves evenly into four groups and cut off the stems. Working on a protected surface and in a well-ventilated area, spray each group of leaves with one of four metallic spray paints: We used gold, silver, copper, and champagne. Let the leaves dry completely and apply a second coat of paint if needed. You want a smooth even finish for a truly metallic look.

Step 2: Apply Gold Leaf and Seal the Leaves

Separate out the champagne-color leaves, then apply gold leaf ($7, Amazon) to each of the champagne-color leaves unevenly, following package directions. When you're finished applying the gold leaf, use spray shellac ($9, Amazon) to seal all the painted leaves. Allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Add Leaves to the Wreath Form

Wrap a 16-inch foam wreath ($9, Amazon) with gold ribbon, securing the ribbon ends with hot glue or floral pins. Add the magnolia leaves to the form by overlapping them one at a time, securing the base of each leaf with hot glue as you go. Continue to work your way around the wreath form, overlapping various colors of metallic leaves until the entire form has been covered.

Hang your wreath with a length of ribbon or on a nail or hook and enjoy!