Use this handy guide to find or make a holiday wreath. It’s the finishing touch your holiday guests will remember.

Not sure if you should buy a ready-made wreath or the materials to make one?

• If you aren’t comfortable crafting or your to-do list is already full, get a store-bought wreath. You’ll find a huge variety at your local store.
• Enjoy creating handmade decorations? Stock up on all the materials you need and create a beautiful wreath at home.
• Do you fall somewhere in between? Purchase a plain wreath made from fresh evergreen clippings when you get your Christmas tree. Then, simply decorate it with ribbons and ornaments.

Be an efficient shopper — have goals in mind when you head to the store.

• When purchasing an artificial wreath, look for one that’s well-made and will last for many Christmases to come.
• Purchase an airtight storage container for your wreath while you’re at the store. This will come in handy later when you’re taking down holiday decorations.
• Don’t forget to pick up a hanger for your wreath. Depending on where you plan to display it, you may need a door hanger or wall hardware.

Ready to make a wreath at home? Gather your materials and set aside a quiet afternoon to create your festive masterpiece.

• Begin with a plain-wreath form. These are usually made of straw, wire or floral design moss.
• Be prepared to make a mess. Work outside if weather permits, or cover your workspace with newspaper. It’ll make cleanup easier.
• Attach decorative material to the wreath one small bundle at a time in a circular pattern. Materials may include dry herbs, artificial flowers, ornaments, bells, evergreen clippings and fresh flowers.
• Finish the wreath with a large red bow at the top.

If you’re not big on traditional wreaths, try one of these alternatives.

• Cut a large circle out of heavy cardboard. As you receive holiday cards, glue them to the cardboard wreath. Finish with a bow at the top and display on your wall.
• Create a wreath using holiday candy. Have older kids help glue candy canes and other festively wrapped candy onto a wreath form. Display it indoors.
• Purchase an oversized wreath with built-in Christmas lights. Display it prominently in your yard for a sparkling display of holiday cheer.
• Cut a hole in the center of a plain paper plate. Let younger kids color the plate with crayons. Add glitter and hang on the kids’ bedroom doors.

You may think all wreaths are green with a big red bow, but wreaths come in all sorts of shapes and sizes.

• Color-coordinate your wreath to a room in your house. Use your wreath to accent colors in your furniture or curtains.
• Bring winter indoors or add a hint of snow to a warm-weather climate — choose a snow-themed wreath. Add lots of glitter and faux icicles.
• Add some glamour to your holiday decor — purchase a silver or gold wreath. You can also create your own using metallic spray paint.
• Fresh-flower wreaths can dress up your indoor space. Poinsettias add a traditional holiday look.

Keep your family’s style in mind when hanging your holiday wreath.

• Want a traditional look? Display your wreath on the front door or above the garage or entryway.
• If you live in a warm area, display your wreath on a palm tree or light fixture outside. It’ll add some winter fun to your landscape.
• Hang miniature wreaths in the bathroom, on bookshelves and on banisters.
• Hang a wreath made of fragrant herbs in the kitchen.
• If you’re still short on inspiration, browse holiday displays while Christmas shopping.