How to Make a Beautiful Dried Orange Garland for the Holidays

Simple, cozy, and naturally charming décor you can make at home.

There’s something timeless about dried orange garland—bright citrus slices strung together into beautiful strands that bring warmth and vintage charm to any space. Whether you’re decorating a tree, adding a touch of rustic style to your mantel, or enhancing your holiday packaging, dried orange garland is one of the easiest (and most budget-friendly) DIY projects you can make.

And the best part? It fills your home with the most amazing warm, citrusy aroma while it bakes.

Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, tips for getting the perfect color, and creative ways to use your garland once it’s made.

Why Dried Orange Garland Is Perfect for Holiday Decorating

Dried citrus décor has been used for centuries, and it continues to be loved for good reason:

• It’s natural and sustainable — no plastic, no waste.

• It’s beautiful — warm amber tones that fit any style (vintage, boho, rustic, farmhouse, traditional).

• It’s affordable — all you need are oranges, twine, and an oven.

• It lasts — properly dried slices can last season after season.

• It feels handmade — and adds that personal touch to your holiday décor.

What You’ll Need

• 3–6 oranges (navels or mandarins both work)

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Paper towels

• Baking sheet + parchment paper

• Twine, jute, or cotton string

• Needle or small skewer (for threading)

How to Make Dried Orange Slices

1. Slice the Oranges

Cut the oranges into thin, even slices—about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick.

Tip: Thinner slices dry faster and become more translucent when hung.

2. Blot the Excess Juice

Use paper towels to remove moisture from each slice. This helps them dry evenly and prevents browning.

3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Lay your slices on parchment paper. Make sure they don’t overlap.

4. Bake Low and Slow

Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 3–4 hours, flipping every 45–60 minutes.

You’ll know they’re done when they feel dry to the touch and no longer sticky.

If they’re still soft in the center, bake for another 20–30 minutes at a time.

5. Cool Completely

Let the slices cool before threading them. They will firm up as they cool.

Assembling Your Garland

6. Thread the Slices

Use a needle or skewer to make a small hole near the top of each slice.

Slide them onto twine, spacing them evenly or grouping them for a layered look.

7. Add Extras (Optional)

Make your garland even more festive by adding:

• Cinnamon sticks

• Wooden beads

• Bay leaves

• Pine sprigs

• Star anise

Creative Ways to Use Your Dried Orange Garland

Dried oranges are incredibly versatile. Try using them to decorate:

• Christmas trees

• Mantels and shelves

• Gift wrapping

• Wreaths

• Dining table centerpieces

• Holiday photo backdrops

• Handmade product displays

• Boho-style décor year-round

You can also make individual ornaments by tying a single slice with ribbon or twine.

How Long Do Dried Orange Slices Last?

If kept dry and stored in a sealed container, they can last months or even years.

Just make sure they’re fully dried—soft slices can mold.

A Cozy, Simple DIY Anyone Can Make

Dried orange garland instantly adds that nostalgic, handmade feel that makes the holidays special. It’s an easy project for families, craft lovers, and anyone looking to add a little natural charm to their home—or to create beautiful, handcrafted accents for online shop products or packaging.

If you make some for your holiday décor this year, don’t forget to share your photos—I’d love to see how you style yours!