How To Make A Preserved Boxwood Ball

Making a preserved boxwood ball is a simple DIY project that creates a lasting piece of greenery for your home.
 
If you’ve been curious about how to make a preserved boxwood ball that stays fresh-looking for over a year, you came to the right spot.
 
A preserved boxwood ball uses real boxwood stems that are treated with a glycerin solution so they keep their shape and color without any watering.
 
The process is affordable, beginner-friendly, and the finished piece looks like a professional florist made it.
 
In this post, we’ll cover everything about how to make a preserved boxwood ball including materials, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips for longevity.
 
Let’s dive right into how to make a preserved boxwood ball that will impress everyone who sees it.
 

How to Make a Preserved Boxwood Ball – What You’ll Need

Before you learn how to make a preserved boxwood ball, gather the right supplies first.
 
Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
 

1. A Styrofoam Ball Base

The foundation for making a preserved boxwood ball is a Styrofoam ball in the size you want.
 
Common sizes range from 4 inches to 12 inches in diameter depending on where you plan to display it.
 
A 6-inch ball is a great starting point for your first attempt at how to make a preserved boxwood ball.
 

2. Fresh Boxwood Clippings

You need fresh boxwood branches with lots of small leaves.
 
About two to three handfuls of clippings will fill a 6-inch ball nicely.
 
Using fresh clippings is key when you learn how to make a preserved boxwood ball because the preservation process works best on recently cut stems.
 

3. Glycerin and Water Solution

The preservation magic comes from mixing one part glycerin with two parts warm water.
 
This solution replaces the water inside the stems and leaves and keeps them soft and green.
 
You cannot skip this step when learning how to make a preserved boxwood ball because glycerin is what stops the leaves from drying out and turning brown.
 

4. Floral Pins or Hot Glue

You need something to secure the boxwood stems into the Styrofoam ball.
 
Floral pins work well because they hold stems firmly without making a mess.
 
Hot glue is also an option when making a preserved boxwood ball if you prefer a permanent hold.
 

5. Pruning Shears or Scissors

Sharp pruners let you cut the boxwood stems cleanly.
 
Clean cuts help the stems absorb the glycerin solution better when you make a preserved boxwood ball.
 

How to Make a Preserved Boxwood Ball – Step by Step

Now let’s get into the actual process of how to make a preserved boxwood ball from start to finish.
 
Follow these steps in order for the best results.
 

Step 1: Prepare the Glycerin Solution

Mix one part glycerin with two parts warm water in a deep container.
 
Stir until the glycerin is fully dissolved in the water.
 
The solution needs to be deep enough to submerge the boxwood stems completely.
 
This step is crucial when you make a preserved boxwood ball because the stems need to soak up the mixture evenly.
 

Step 2: Soak the Boxwood Clippings

Place your fresh boxwood stems into the glycerin solution with the cut ends down.
 
Let them soak for 24 to 48 hours depending on the thickness of the stems.
 
During this time, the solution travels up the stems and into the leaves.
 
You’ll notice the leaves start looking darker and feeling softer as they absorb the glycerin.
 
This soaking step is the most important part of how to make a preserved boxwood ball because it determines how long your ball will last.
 

Step 3: Remove and Dry the Stems

After soaking, take the stems out of the solution and pat them dry with a paper towel.
 
Let them air dry on a towel for about an hour before you start inserting them.
 
The stems should feel slightly flexible and not brittle at all.
 
If they still feel dry, give them more time in the solution before proceeding with how to make a preserved boxwood ball.
 

Step 4: Cut the Stems into Small Pieces

Use your pruning shears to cut the preserved boxwood stems into smaller pieces about 3 to 4 inches long.
 
Each piece should have several leaves attached.
 
Cutting them small makes it easier to create a full, even coverage when you make a preserved boxwood ball.
 

Step 5: Insert the Stems into the Styrofoam Ball

Start at the top of the Styrofoam ball and push a stem into the foam.
 
Work your way down the ball in a spiral pattern covering the surface evenly.
 
Insert each stem close to the next one so no foam shows through.
 
If you used floral pins, slide one through the stem and into the foam for extra security.
 
Continue this process until the entire ball is covered in preserved boxwood leaves.
 
This is the most satisfying part of how to make a preserved boxwood ball because you see your creation come to life.
 

Tips for Making a Preserved Boxwood Ball That Lasts

Once you master how to make a preserved boxwood ball, you’ll want it to stay beautiful as long as possible.
 
Here are some expert tips to extend its life.
 

1. Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight

Direct sun will fade the green color of your preserved boxwood ball over time.
 
Place it in a spot with indirect light or artificial lighting only.
 
This simple habit doubles the lifespan of any preserved boxwood ball you make.
 

2. Avoid Humidity and Moisture

Even though the glycerin preserves the leaves, excess moisture can cause mold.
 
Keep your preserved boxwood ball in a dry area away from bathrooms or kitchens with steam.
 
A dry environment is essential after you make a preserved boxwood ball because moisture is the main enemy of preserved greenery.
 

3. Dust Gently with a Soft Brush

Over weeks and months, dust will settle on the leaves of your preserved boxwood ball.
 
Use a soft makeup brush or a dry paintbrush to gently wipe the dust away.
 
Do not use water or any cleaning spray as this can damage the preservation.
 
Regular dusting keeps your preserved boxwood ball looking fresh and vibrant.
 

4. Add a Ribbon or Stand for Display

After you make a preserved boxwood ball, consider how you’ll display it.
 
You can place it on a candle holder, a small plant stand, or hang it with a decorative ribbon.
 
Adding a base makes the ball look intentional and polished in any room.
 

So, How to Make a Preserved Boxwood Ball?

Making a preserved boxwood ball is a straightforward craft that gives you a long-lasting greenery decoration.
 
You soak fresh boxwood clippings in a glycerin and water solution for about 24 to 48 hours.
 
Then you cut the stems and insert them into a Styrofoam ball until fully covered.
 
The result is a beautiful, maintenance-free piece of decor that stays green for over a year.
 
Now you know exactly how to make a preserved boxwood ball from start to finish.
 
Gather your supplies and give it a try this weekend.
 
Your home will thank you for the touch of lasting greenery.