A Heartfelt DIY Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath

Crafting an upcycled yard tools wreath from the ashes of the fires.

The recent fires that devastated my hometown left an unforgettable mark, especially on my friends who lost their homes. I can only begin to fathom the heartbreak of losing a house, a lifetime of cherished memories, and treasured belongings.

As a family, we have done what we can—volunteering, offering support, and finding small ways to help—but my heart still aches for those who are starting over, rebuilding from the ground up.

Jump to How to Make An Upcycled yard tools wreath

This once was a beautiful house filled with love and memories; it became a pile of ashes in just a few hours on a windy night in January.

A charming white house with a dark gray gabled roof and vibrant red front door. It features black shutters on the left window and has a well-maintained green lawn with shrubs. The sky is partly cloudy, adding to the picturesque setting.
A devastated landscape shows the aftermath of a wildfire, with charred trees and ruins of buildings. Smoke lingers in the air against an orange-tinted sky, and debris is scattered across the ground.

My dear friend Becky had the most beautiful garden—where she poured her heart into tending her flowers and curating a charming collection of vintage garden tools that adorned her yard.

We have shared a beautiful friendship and a love for treasure hunting over the years, and we never pass up a thrift store; we were always looking for unique finds to add to our gardens or home decor. Some of our best times were spent chatting about our latest plantings, exchanging ideas, and dreaming up new ways to make our gardens flourish and homes beautiful. 

Potted plants sit on a wet brick surface. The front pot features light pink and green leaves, while the one behind displays dark purple and green hues. Among these is an upcycled yard tools wreath adorned with succulents and lush green plants in additional pots.
Close-up of a cluster of lilac flowers in full bloom, showcasing their delicate purple petals. An upcycled yard tools wreath subtly decorates the background, nestled among blurred green leaves and hints of a building to emphasize the vibrant florals.
A lush garden adorned with vibrant pink roses in full bloom, encircled by an upcycled yard tools wreath. The rich green leaves create a vivid contrast, while sunlight casts gentle shadows that highlight the texture and color of the petals.
A cluster of blooming hydrangea bushes with blue and pink flowers, surrounded by lush green leaves and an upcycled yard tools wreath, is illuminated by sunlight. The scene is vibrant and colorful, with a shaded background.

Upcycling Yard Tools : A Symbol of Hope from the Ashes

This month’s Hand Crafted Society project focused on garden tools, so I saw an opportunity to spread a little more love in a personal and meaningful way.

I wanted to create something that honored what was lost while bringing my dear friend a touch of beauty and remembrance. Given how much I love incorporating vintage finds into my own garden, it felt only right to take something from the ashes of her garden and turn it into a heartfelt tribute and let my friend know that there is hope.

Digging Through the Ashes

I made my way to the burn zone, sifting through the ashes of my girlfriend’s home, hoping to salvage something meaningful. Among the remnants, I found an old shovel, watering cans, rakes, and other tools that once symbolized care and growth.

One of the pieces I found was a large metal “S,” once a strap that held her chimney together. The bolt had melted, making it impossible to remove by hand. Determined, we returned with a Sawzall, and after some effort, we freed it. Unfortunately, it was too heavy to add to the wreath, but I’ll find another purpose for it in time as I know she will love it.

A woman in a cap and sunglasses stands amidst debris, holding a wire structure in a fire-damaged area. She wears a navy shirt and red leggings. Charred trees and a residential area are visible in the background.
A person in a navy cap and red pants examines rusted metal debris in a fire-damaged area with charred rubble. A brick wall and twisted metal girders are visible in the background.
A rusty, vintage garden tool with scissor-like handles and a curved blade rests on a brown paper surface. Nearby, flowers with pink and yellow petals add contrast to the tool's weathered appearance, as if ready to upcycle into an artistic yard tools wreath.
Amidst the rubble, a person in a navy cap and sunglasses squats with a smile, showcasing an upcycled rusty metal object. Clad in a blue shirt and red pants, they stand out against the backdrop of broken bricks and trees, finding treasure where others see debris.
A rusty tabletop displays a watering can, garden rake, trowel, small decorative owl, and a tall cylindrical object. Amid debris and charred remains of a structure with blackened trees suggesting a recent fire, these items form an upcycled yard tools wreath of resilience.
A collection of rusty gardening tools and old metal containers are scattered on a wooden surface. Among them is a rusted metal sculpture of a ladybug. Greenery is visible in the background.
Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath-This Hand Crafted Society decorative wreath is made of intertwined branches on a white wooden background. It features pink and yellow flowers, small gardening tools, a floral bow, and a miniature watering can as accents.

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Spring Wreath DIY Materials (with Garden Tools)

  • One Grapevine Wreath 
  • Clear Lacquer Spray 
  • Vintage Garden or old gardening tools  (old rake heads, rusty junk, and faucet handles. Hose reel, old hoses.
  • Terra Cotta Pots
  • Seed Packets 
  • Wire  
  •  Zip Ties or Pipe Cleaner
  • Ribbon
  • Moss

Additional Tools You’ll Need

Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath-A wooden table holds a grapevine wreath, floral ribbon, scissors, pruning shears, a glue gun, and assorted pink and yellow artificial flowers. In the background, there’s a garden scene with rocks and a metal chair.

How to Make an Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath

This is a relatively simple project once you collect your supplies and, most importantly, your gardening tools. Of course, I would not expect that you would be salvaging your tools out of the ashes, but you could always find a few at your local thrift stores, yard sales, flea markets or maybe in your garden shed. 

Step 1: Prepare the wreath and garden tools

As a first step in making your wreath, choose a sturdy base. I used a grapevine wreath frame for my project, but an old garden hose can also create a unique and beautiful foundation. To enhance and protect the frame, I sprayed it with a clear sealant, giving it a richer, refreshed look while ensuring its durability.

Next, thoroughly clean any old, rusty tools you plan to incorporate, removing dirt and debris. Since mine had been exposed to fire, I took extra care in scrubbing them before sealing them with a clear lacquer spray. This not only preserves their character but also gives them a lasting finish.

Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Use a good lacquer spray on your wreath and tools to protect them for years.

Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath-A collection of rusty gardening tools, including a watering can, rake, and metal pipe fittings, arranged on a surface. The items show signs of weathering and age, with visible rust and wear.
Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath-A can of Gemini Master's Magic Wood Touch Up Series spray sits on a surface, surrounded by rusty metal tools. The can features a black label with gold and white text, indicating it is an AWC30 Aerosol WC Satin with a net weight of 10 oz (284 grams).

Step 2- Add a base of greenery

To create a balanced yet organic design, I incorporated lush green faux ferns, adding natural texture and depth to the wreath. To maintain an asymmetrical composition, I arranged the decorative elements on one side, allowing the design to feel effortless yet intentional.

Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath-A rustic wreath made of twigs and adorned with greenery, placed on a wooden table. An old metal rake is partially visible underneath the wreath. In the background, there are green plants and a vintage metal chair.

Step 3: Adding the Vintage Tools to the Wreath

Arrange your garden tools in a visually balanced design, considering their shapes and sizes for the best composition. Once you’re happy with the placement, securely fasten them using zip ties or wire to ensure they stay in place.

A rustic wreath made of twine and metal garden tools, such as a rake and watering can, adorned with green ferns. It rests on a wooden surface with sunlight casting shadows, and gravel is visible in the background.
A rustic wreath made of old, rusty garden tools, including a rake, shears, and a spade, is adorned with green foliage. The wreath rests on wooden boards, creating a vintage gardening theme.
A rusted metal tool with green ferns growing around it lies on a wooden surface. The tool appears aged and weathered, with moss and plant growth indicating long-term outdoor exposure. Sunlight highlights the textures and colors.
Rusted gardening tools, including rakes and a pot, are arranged with green foliage on a wooden background, creating a rustic decorative wreath.
A rustic rake with a wooden handle and metal tines lies flat on weathered wooden boards, surrounded by vibrant green fern leaves and twigs. A plastic tie is attached to the rake, contrasting with its aged, rusty appearance.
Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Zip ties are a fantastic tool for securing your design and can be easily concealed with moss for a seamless, natural look.

Step 4: Add ribbon and flowers

To bring this wreath to life for the spring season, I incorporated a soft pastel floral bow along with delicate pink cosmos, elegant white roses, and a few cheerful yellow ranunculus. These touches add a fresh, vibrant feel while maintaining a natural, harmonious look.

A rustic arrangement on a wooden surface features pink flowers with yellow centers, rusty gardening tools, a piece of lace-patterned fabric, and greenery, creating a vintage garden aesthetic.
Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath-A rustic wreath filled with delicate white roses and vibrant greenery is adorned with floral-themed ribbon. Pink flowers and vines accent the scene, set against a light wooden backdrop.

Watch How easy it is to make a bow!h

A floral ribbon bow with pink and green patterns sits on a wooden surface, surrounded by an upcycled yard tools wreath. A large red play button overlays the bow, with text: "Make A Bow In Under A Minute" in red letters below.

Gifting this wreath to my friend today was a deeply moving moment—filled with a few tears, countless hugs, and an overwhelming sense of love.

A woman with curly hair, in an orange vest and striped shirt, stands proudly in a garden holding an upcycled yard tools wreath adorned with vibrant flowers. Behind her, a birdhouse peeks through lush greenery, adding charm to the serene setting.

Styling Your New Wreath For the Garden

There are many creative ways to display your upcycled garden wreath, adding charm and character to your outdoor space. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

  • Front Door: Hang it on your front door to welcome guests and celebrate the beauty of spring.
  • Garden Gate: Add a touch of rustic charm by displaying it on your garden gate.
  • She Shed or Greenhouse: Decorate the door of your garden shed or greenhouse for a cozy, inviting look.
  • Patio or Fence: Hang it on a patio wall or fence to bring a unique decorative element to your outdoor seating area.

Wherever you choose to display it, your wreath will be a beautiful reminder of resilience, renewal, and the love of gardening.

A decorative wreath shaped like a rabbit hangs on a glass door. The wreath is made of green moss and adorned with artificial spring flowers, green leaves, and a pair of faux carrots. A small nest with pastel eggs is also attached to the wreath.
DIY Dollar Tree Rabbit Wreath
Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath- decorative wreath made of intertwined branches hangs on a white wooden fence. It features pink and yellow flowers, a small metal watering can, a rustic trowel, and a small basket. A floral bow adds a colorful touch.
Tip from wendy’s craft room:

When inserting your flowers, add a small amount of hot glue on the end of the stem and insert into the wreath.

An upcycled yard tools wreath graces the white wooden wall. Rustic twigs, white and pink flowers, a floral bow, small garden tools, and a metal watering can combine for a charming garden-themed decoration, with greenery adding a fresh touch around the wreath.
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5 from 2 votes
Yield: 1 Wreath

DIY Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath

Discover how to create an upcycled yard tools wreath by transforming salvaged garden tools into a meaningful decoration.
Prep Time1 hour
Cost$25

Equipment

  • 1 pair of scissors
  • 1 Hot glue gun
  • 1 Pair of wirecutters

Materials

  • One Grapevine Wreath
  • Clear Lacquer Spray
  • Vintage Garden or old gardening tools (old rake heads rusty junk, and faucet handles. Hose reel, old hoses.
  • Terra Cotta Pots
  • Seed Packets
  • Wire
  • Zip Ties or Pipe Cleaner
  • Ribbon
  • Moss

Instructions

  • Step 1: Prepare the wreath and garden tools
    As a first step in making your wreath, choose a sturdy base. I used a grapevine wreath frame for my project, but an old garden hose can also create a unique and beautiful foundation. To enhance and protect the frame, I sprayed it with a clear sealant, giving it a richer, refreshed look while ensuring its durability.
    Next, thoroughly clean any old, rusty tools you plan to incorporate, removing dirt and debris. Since mine had been exposed to fire, I took extra care in scrubbing them before sealing them with a clear lacquer spray. This not only preserves their character but also gives them a lasting finish.
  • Step 2- Add a base of greenery
    To create a balanced yet organic design, I incorporated lush green faux ferns, adding natural texture and depth to the wreath. To maintain an asymmetrical composition, I arranged the decorative elements on one side, allowing the design to feel effortless yet intentional.
  • Step 3: Adding the Vintage Tools to the Wreath
    Arrange your garden tools in a visually balanced design, considering their shapes and sizes for the best composition. Once you're happy with the placement, securely fasten them using zip ties or wire to ensure they stay in place.
  • Step 4: Add ribbon and flowers
    To bring this wreath to life for the spring season, I incorporated a soft pastel floral bow along with delicate pink cosmos, elegant white roses, and a few cheerful yellow ranunculus. These touches add a fresh, vibrant feel while maintaining a natural, harmonious look.
flourish

Other Garden Decoration Ideas

Enhancing your garden with charming decorations can create a welcoming and cozy outdoor space. Consider adding birdhouses or a  bird feeder to attract feathered friends, bringing life and movement to your garden while helping local wildlife thrive. 

how to use succulents to create a flora arrangement- A red wood birdhouse with the roof planted with succulents.
Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath- quaint garden scene features a charming summer tablescape with a glass-topped white wrought-iron table and matching chairs. The table is adorned with a watering can holding flowers. In the background, a small shed is decorated with potted plants and hanging baskets. Lush greenery and bright flowers surround the area.
Basket arch on the She Shed

Rustic furniture, such as a weathered wooden bench or a vintage metal bistro set, adds character and provides a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the beauty around you.

A rustic wheelbarrow filled with vibrant pink and purple flowers stands beside a large tree. Next to it, there is an ornate planter filled with green foliage. The scene is set against a background of glass doors and a stone pathway.
Rustic Garden Decor
Fire pit outdoors in a California backyard.
Market Lights without Trees

An old wheelbarrow can be repurposed into a stunning planter, overflowing with seasonal flowers or cascading greenery. And for those cooler evenings, a fire pit makes an excellent gathering spot, creating warmth and ambiance for outdoor entertaining. Mixing these elements together adds charm, personality, and functionality to your garden, making it a space you’ll enjoy year-round.

flourish

Other Spring Tutorials from WM Design House

If you love this upcycled yard tools wreath, you might also enjoy some of my other favorite wreaths:

DIY easter wreath made with dollar tree wire frames, then mossed.

Easy DIY Dollar Tree Easter Wreath (Egg-Bunny) Tutorial

Click Here
A rustic outdoor scene features a large, DIY carrot wreath made of pastel orange fabric flowers with green leaves at the top, hanging on a worn wooden door. Surrounding the area are potted plants, gardening tools, and a tall candle lantern.

How to make an Easy Easter DIY Carrot Wreath

Click Here
A rustic grapevine wreath, upcycled from yard tools, boasts green foliage, two small terracotta pots, and a decorative bird in a nest. Hanging against a weathered wooden wall, it exudes a natural, earthy charm.

Box Spring Upcycle: ( giving old mattress springs new life)

Click Here

That’s a wrap for today! I hope you enjoyed this heartfelt story and the beauty that emerged from the ashes. Don’t forget to check out the links below to explore the stunning projects from fellow bloggers!

signature
This Hand Crafted Society decorative wreath is made of intertwined branches on a white wooden background. It features pink and yellow flowers, small gardening tools, a floral bow, and a miniature watering can as accents.
WM Design House
A small, whimsical green birdhouse decorated with moss and twigs, surrounded by pink and white flowers. The house features a round opening, small bench, and tiny door set in a garden scene.
Thistlekey Lane
Large wall clock with a rustic look, featuring two simple black clock hands on a light wooden face. The clock is surrounded by a decorative arch made of green ivy and wooden spools, set against a vertically paneled wall.
South House Designs
A nighttime garden scene featuring a white picket fence, a wagon wheel leaning on it, and a hanging light fixture. A large planter filled with soil is placed against the fence. Bare trees stand in the background under a dark, clear sky.
Living Large in a Small House
Handcrafted Society Logo
A close-up of an arrangement featuring green foliage and small, round, orange fruits in a wicker basket with a leather accent. The focus is on the vibrant greenery and fruits, with a blurred background.
Sonata Home Design
A rustic wooden frame displays a variety of green succulents and air plants, creating a vertical garden. The plants are arranged neatly, providing a contrast of textures against the wood's natural grain.
An Organized Season
Close-up of rusty gardening tools, including a rake, spade, and watering can, arranged on a beige surface. These treasures from the Hand Crafted Society display heavy corrosion, showcasing their age and wear with pride.
A decorative chandelier from Hand Crafted Society with dangling glass crystals and three candle holders, set against an outdoor background. The crystals glisten brightly in the light, creating a sparkling effect.
Amy Sadler Designs
Upcycled Yard Tools Wreath-A rustic upcycled yard tools wreath, embellished with pink and white flowers, greenery, and a pink ribbon, hangs against a wooden backdrop. Text overlay reads, "The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Crafting a Wreath with Upcycled Garden Tools.

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More about me!

Wendy

Hello, I’m Wendy – a dedicated homemaker with a deep passion for decorating, gardening, cooking, and crafting. I find joy in harmonizing beautiful elements to fashion a space that is both comfortable and inspiring. I will help you create a beautiful home, one project at a time.

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12 Comments

  1. Wendy- My heart was breaking just looking at the photos of my burned down home. I love your idea of incorporating salvaged pieces into the wreath. What a lovely way to pay tribute to memories and honor the possibilities of the future.

    Reply

  2. Wendy, this is adorable for my she shed door! I see these rakes all the time when I am thrifting and now I am going to pick one up because I know what to do with it!

    Reply

  3. Such a beautiful way to honor your friend, Wendy. Your wreath is beautiful and something I know she will treasure for years to come. It’s a gorgeous reminder there’s always hope even among ashes. Sending you hugs and can’t wait to share on tomorrow’s From the Front Porch, CoCo

    Reply

  4. What a wonderful way to honor your friend. It is a beautiful wreath with rustic charm and sentimental meaning.

    Reply

  5. Wow Wendy. This is truly amazing. You are a priceless friend and I feel for your girlfriend and so many affected. I can’t even imagine. The thoughtfulness behind this project says so much. Thank you for sharing this with all of us. XO- MaryJo

    Reply

  7. 5 stars
    Wendy – As always, so beautiful and what a gift for your friend. It honors what has been lost and gives hope to what can be again!

    Reply

  8. Wow, Wendy, the loss from these fires is unbelievable! I can’t imagine how difficult it has been for everyone in your area! It’s so wonderful that you were able to salvage items from this tragedy to make something beautiful for your friend! Thanks for sharing your creativity with us! Prayers for all!

    Reply

  9. This breaks my heart and fills me with joy at the same time. What a beautiful and special gift for your friend. You share beauty and love and in all that you do, Wendy!

    Reply

  10. 5 stars
    What a beautiful project for a lovely friend honoring her loss, but also a wonderful friendship.!!!

    Reply

  11. Oh Wendy this is amazing. What a special story of hope and healing for your sweet friend! The wreath looks SO pretty and I love the bow. Such a loving gesture towards those who lost their homes in the fires.

    Reply

  12. What a beautiful wreath project and heart tugging story behind it! Making something so sentimental for your friend brings tears to my eyes! Love it!

    Reply

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