DIY Fall Wreath Using a Rusted Bicycle Wheel — CraftBits.com

DIY Fall Wreath Using a Rusted Bicycle Wheel

You know when you clean out the garage and stumble across something you just can’t throw away? That was me last weekend. Hidden behind old paint cans and forgotten soccer balls was this beautiful, rusted bike wheel—weathered, worn, and full of memories. It once belonged to my son’s first real bike, the one he rode (wobbly and proud) down our cul-de-sac. Cue the mum tears.
Instead of tossing it, I decided to turn it into something special—a fall wreath that celebrates the season and a sweet little slice of our family history.

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What you need

1 rusted bike wheel (any size will do!)

Faux fall florals – think eucalyptus, burgundy mums, orange dahlias, wheat sprays, or mini pumpkins

Ribbon – I used burlap and plaid for that cozy, farmhouse feel

Floral wire or zip ties

Wire cutters and scissors

Hot glue gun (optional but handy)

Twine or hook for hanging

Instructions

1. Prep the Wheel (or don’t!)

Leave the rust if you love the patina—it adds character! Just give it a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any garage dust or cobwebs. If you prefer, you can clear-coat it with a matte sealer to keep the rust from flaking.

2. Arrange Your Florals

Lay out your faux florals before attaching anything. I went asymmetrical—building a “spray” on one lower quadrant. Think of it like a cascade that hugs the curve of the wheel. Start with the leafy stems (eucalyptus or ferns), then layer in your bolder pieces like mums and berries.

3. Secure Everything

Use floral wire or zip ties to attach your stems to the spokes or rim. Start with the base greenery and layer your blooms on top. If anything feels wobbly, dab on a little hot glue for extra hold.

4. Add a Ribbon Bow

Tie a big, loopy bow with your chosen ribbon and secure it where your florals start. I used plaid flannel and wired burlap—hello autumn coziness. You can add trailing ribbons for extra flair. Let them dangle and twist naturally.

5. Finishing Touches

Pop in a couple of mini faux pumpkins or acorns for that unmistakable fall vibe. Hot glue them right onto the spokes or nestle them in the florals.

6. Hang It Up

Thread a loop of twine through the top spoke or just hook the rim onto a nail or wreath hanger. I hung mine right on our mudroom door, and it’s been getting compliments ever since.

Tips:

Want a more rustic vibe? Add pinecones or dried corn husks.
If you love essential oils, dab a little cinnamon or clove on the florals for a cozy scent.
No wheel? Thrift stores and curbside cleanups are goldmines—you’ll be surprised where these pop up.

This wreath turned out to be more than just a craft. It’s a little tribute to childhood adventures, scraped knees, and the magic of making something beautiful out of the forgotten.