Why the stamp were issued:  To comemmorate the beauty of holiday wreaths.

About the stamp designs:  Each of the four stamps pictures a different holiday wreath created by floral artist Laura Dowling and photographed by Kevin Allen. There is a wreath with aspidistra leaves folded to resemble ribbons, gilded pinecone and magnolia pod wreath with red ribbon, red and gold ribbon wreath with dried flowers, and woodland bush ivy wreath with red winterberries.

First Day City:  The First Day of Issue Ceremony was held in Freeport, Maine, at the L.L. Bean flagship store.

History the stamp represents:  Part of what makes the holiday season so enjoyable is the beauty and nostalgia of the many different decorations. There is garland, twinkling lights, jolly snowmen, Christmas trees, and, of course, wreaths.

Wreaths have always been popular holiday decorations. They come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, and are displayed in homes and businesses around the world. You can find wreaths for sale in shops just about anywhere, but some of the best are those you make yourself.

Crafting your own holiday wreath can seem intimidating, but it is easier than you may think. All you need is a wire wreath frame (available at most craft stores), about 25 evergreen branches (two feet long), garden shears, florist’s wire, and wire cutters. First, remove the smaller arms from each evergreen branch. These will be the pieces that make up the wreath. To attach them to the wreath frame, make bunches of three or four branches and wind the florist’s wire around the cut ends, securing them to the frame. Add more bunches in the same way, slightly overlapping each other until the wreath is complete.

When it’s time to decorate your wreath, you can add any ribbons, pine cones, and ornaments you like. There is nothing better than a beautiful handmade wreath hanging on your front door for the holidays.