Learn tips for Festival of Wreaths at library

Tips and hints for making an entry in the Festival of Wreaths will be a workshop’s focus on Nov. 10 from 1 to 2 p.m. at Madison Public Library.

“We’ll have a workshop to give you additional ideas for your wreaths and how to promote your group,” adult service librarian Rachel Hooper said. The workshop is free. Registration is not required.

Sponsored by The Friends of the Madison Public Library, the first annual Festival of Wreaths will celebrate the holiday spirit and showcase non-profit organizations and artists around Madison. Wreaths will represent the organization’s purpose, while artists will follow a book theme.

Entry deadline is Nov. 30. Festival of Wreaths will be displayed at the library from Dec. 3 through Jan. 7, 2013.

“This workshop will help organizations with decorating ideas to promote their mission,” Hooper said. “Some people might not feel they are ‘crafty’ enough, so we thought this would help those participants.”

The library also encourages local artists to submit entries to the festival. Friends president Stephenie Walker and Hooper are collaborating on the workshop.

Width and height of wreaths can be 20 inches and weigh three pounds maximum. Wreaths must be artificial with no live greenery or food. Acceptable materials include ornaments, ribbon, glitter, artificial greenery, flowers, toys, pottery, fabric and recycled materials.

“We hope to give examples and pointers so groups can leave with a working knowledge of how to make their own wreath,” Hooper said. “Individuals are welcome to come and gather information on wreath making and help participants individualize their wreath. It is an information session.”

While in Madison Public Library, visitors can browse the shelves for several books on wreaths. “I plan to have some of these books available at the workshop so participants can look through them and get additional ideas,” Hooper said.

For more information, send email to madisonfriendsofthelibrary@gmail.com or visit Facebook/Madison Friends of the Library.