DIY Garden Shovel Wreath: Upcycle a Kids Shovel into Charming Door Decor

Turn an old or inexpensive kids' plastic shovel into a whimsical wreath for your shed, fence, or garden gate. This simple upcycle takes basic craft supplies—spray paint, burlap ribbon, faux eucalyptus, and a daisy bunch—and transforms a shovel into a bright, conversation-starting piece of outdoor decor. It's an easy project for adults and a supervised, creative activity for kids.

Finished shovel wreath: a painted kids' shovel embellished with a burlap bow, daisies and eucalyptus—ready to hang.

Tips before you start

• Choose a shovel size that fits your door or hanging location—avoid a shovel that's too large for the space.
• If you plan to paint the shovel, follow the spray paint manufacturer's instructions and allow full drying time; painting both sides can give a neater finished look.
• Supervise children during spray painting and hot-glue steps; spray paint and the glue gun should be handled by an adult or with close adult assistance.
• Decide how you'll hang the shovel: tie twine around the handle to form a loop, or glue a hanging loop to the back for a cleaner look.

Supplies

• Kids' plastic shovel
• Spray paint (color of your choice)
• Burlap ribbon (for bow)
• Daisy bunch (faux or dried)
• Eucalyptus stems (faux or dried)
• Twine
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks

How to make a Garden Shovel Wreath (step-by-step)

1. Prepare and paint the shovel. Clean the shovel of dirt and stickers. Spray-paint according to the paint can directions, applying thin, even coats. Allow the shovel to dry completely between coats; two coats may be needed for full coverage.
2. Make the burlap bow. While the shovel dries, cut about 12 inches of burlap ribbon. Form two loops and secure the center with a zip tie (or tie a knot). Trim the ends to your desired length. Glue a daisy to the center of the bow for a finished look.
3. Attach greenery and bow. Once paint is fully dry, use the hot glue gun to add decorations. Apply a line of glue where the shovel handle meets the wide blade and press eucalyptus stems into place. Add a few dabs of glue to the back of the bow and press it onto the shovel where it looks balanced.
4. Wrap the handle and add a hanging loop. Start by gluing the end of the twine to the handle. Wrap the twine around the handle, adding small dabs of hot glue as needed to secure it. When you reach the end, cut the twine and glue the end down on the back of the handle. Create a hanging loop by tying extra twine at the top of the handle or by gluing a looped ribbon to the backside of the shovel.
5. Hang and enjoy. Hang your shovel wreath on a shed door, fence post, or porch wall. Check glue bonds periodically if your wreath will be exposed to weather; consider using outdoor-rated glue and faux greenery for longer-lasting outdoor display.

Close-up of the shovel wreath detailing: burlap bow, daisy center, and eucalyptus stems glued to the shovel blade.