Threads 112: How to Make a Garden Broom with Local Found Materials

In this Threads, we will make a Garden broom with found materials.

Finished broom

• You’ll need:
  A straight stick, 4–5 feet long, for the handle
  A large bunch of thin twigs or brushy branches (any tree or shrub with flexible, leafless twigs
  works well)
  Garden string or strong twine
  Electric drill with a bit large enough for your string to pass through
  Note: All measurements are flexible and should suit the size of your materials. Use these
  instructions as a guide, not a rulebook — adapt as needed!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Handle:
Drill a hole near the top of the handle, about 2–3 inches from the end — this is for hanging the
broom when not in use (helps the twigs keep their shape).
Then drill two more holes near the bottom of the handle: one at 6 inches from the end, and
another at 9 inches.

2. Sort Your Twigs:
Divide your twigs into two piles — short ones (about 20 inches long) and longer ones (about 24
inches).

3. Prepare the Base Layer:
Gather a bundle of short twigs. Line them up so that the finer ends (the bottoms) are even and
touching the ground. Don’t worry about the tops being uneven — the focus is on creating a flat
base.
Once aligned, measure about 20 inches from the bottom and trim the tops if needed.

4. Start Wrapping:
Lay the twigs in a row. Cut a long piece of string and fold it in half. Wrap it around the first twig
about 4 inches from the top. Make a tight half knot or twine to secure it.
Add another twig, wrap again, and repeat until you have enough bundled to wrap around the
broom handle once.

5. Attach to the Handle:
Thread the ends of the string through the 6-inch hole in the handle. Pull tight and wrap the string around the handle and twig bundle several times — making sure it’s secure.

6. Add the Second Layer:
Repeat the process with your longer twigs. Wrap them around the outside of the first bundle and
thread the string through the 9-inch hole. Wrap tightly around the handle and all layers of twigs.
Final Step: Add a Hanging Loop
Thread a piece of string through the top hole of the handle for hanging your broom.

No drill? Make a small notch near the top of the handle and tie the string tightly there instead.
Why hang it? Hanging your broom helps keep the twigs straight and prolongs its life