(For the 24 weeks leading up to December 1st, we’ll be making a Christmas ornament. Each one will be traditional to or inspired by a different country.)

This week we are headed to Armenia for our ornament inspiration. Armenia is one of the oldest Christian countries with Christianity being chosen as the state religion in the 4th century. Armenians celebrate Christmas on January 6th which was traditionally considered Jesus’ birth day until the Roman church changed it to December 25th. Christmas is considered a religious time and traditionally, Armenians fast for the week before. Since Christmas is mainly religious, Santa Claus (or Grandfather Winter) visits children on New Year’s Eve.

Traditional Armenian Christmas trees are decorated with food, white doves symbolizing peace and golden ribbons. It’s from the last two I take my inspiration.

This ornament is super simple, but I think striking. I love the idea of white doves on a Christmas tree making us all think of peace during the season. I think these would also look lovely tied on gifts wrapped in simple brown paper.

Dove Wreath Ornament

Supplies:

• 2 1/2″ – 3″ twig wreath
• 1/8″ gold ribbon
• small glittered dove (You can find these at craft stores in the bridal or cake decorating section, they are meant as table or cake decorations. Mine are about 1″ long with a wingspan of 1 1/2″ and came in a bag of 12.)

Tools:

• scissors
• tacky glue or hot glue and glue gun

1. Wrap a length of ribbon around the twig wreath. It is easiest to do this if you cut a length of ribbon about 12″. I wove it in between branches and wires. Glue the ends in at the back of the wreath between twigs.

2. Glue a dove inside the wreath. I used tacky glue and had to hold it until it set. Hot glue would work much faster, but mine is packed away. Let dry.

I had originally planned to add a second dove on one of the sides, but decided it didn’t need it. Play around and see what look you like.

3. Add a loop of gold ribbon to the top to hang.

Shenoraavor Nor Dari yew Pari Gaghand!