The holiday season is a time for festive decorations and bringing some natural greenery into your home. Garlands are a classic way to decorate for any winter holiday. They can be simple or elaborate, inexpensive or luxurious. When planning holiday decor this season, consider incorporating garlands to add a touch of organic charm. Choose balloon accessories to complement your garlands for extra whimsy.
Types of Garlands
There are many types of garlands to choose from when decorating for the holidays. Here are some of the most popular options:
Evergreen Garlands
These are made from fresh-cut evergreen branches like pine, fir, or cedar. Choose additions with densely packed needles to last throughout the season. These natural garlands are aromatic and nostalgic. Decorate them simply with white lights or bows.
Artificial Garlands
Pre-lit garlands come in many styles, from traditional pine needles to whimsical birch branch designs. Opt for high-quality materials that mimic natural branches. Artificial garlands are a great low-maintenance way to decorate.
Tinsel or Beaded Garlands
For a retro look, drape tinsel garlands over your mantel or banisters. These glittery accents catch the light beautifully. Beaded garlands add pops of color with their jeweled berries or poinsettia flowers.
Fresh Flower or Herb Garlands
Make your garland from fresh roses, eucalyptus, cedar, rosemary, or other aromatic flowers and herbs. This is an inexpensive DIY decor project.
Where to Use Garlands
Now that you’ve selected the perfect garland, where should you display it? Use garlands in these critical areas:
- Mantel – Drape a garland across your fireplace mantel. Add Christmas stockings hanging below.
- Stair Railing – Wind greenery along your staircase banisters.
- Over Windows – Hang garlands above windows as part of an indoor wreath display.
- Along Table Runners – Use garlands as table centerpieces for holiday meals.
- Around Doorways – Outline entryways and archways with garlands.
- On a Tree – Use garlands instead of tinsel on your Christmas tree for natural decor.
- Around Candles – Encircle a candle centerpiece with a ring of greenery.
Adding Accents
After you’ve displayed your garlands, accent them with the following for extra flair:
- Bows – Adorn your garlands with large plaid or velvet bows.
- Cones – String cones or other natural elements onto evergreen garlands.
- Flowers – Incorporate seasonal flowers like red poinsettias or white lilies into the garland.
- Berries – Use fake berry picks woven into the garland for pops of color.
- Ornaments – Hang a few shiny keepsake ornaments along your garlands.
- Lights – Weave sparkling string lights throughout the garland.
- Ribbons – Tie ribbons around your garland for visual interest.
- Nesting – Hang nests with faux birds or eggs within the garland
DIY Garland Ideas
If you want to make your one-of-a-kind garland, it’s easy to do with materials you likely have around the house. Get creative with these ideas:
- Paper Chain Garland – Use colorful paper, scissors, and glue to create a 3D paper chain garland. This is an excellent project for kids.
- Popcorn Garland – String popped popcorn and add cranberries or beads for an edible old-fashioned garland.
- Balloon Garland – Inflate balloons in holiday colors and shapes, then arrange them in a garland design.
- Ribbon Garland – Gather ribbons in holiday patterns, twist them together, and shape them into garlands.
- Card Garland – Cut cardstock into holiday shapes, punch holes, and string together with a ribbon.
- Felt Garland – Cut out felt in festive patterns like stars, trees, and stockings and assemble into a bunting banner.
- Paper Snowflake Garland – Fold the white paper into snowflakes and string them together for wintry decor.
- Burlap Garland – Cut burlap into long triangles and use jute to tie it onto a rope for a rustic garland.
Making your garland is an enjoyable way to get creative for the holidays. Use materials you already have around the house, like paper, felt, and ribbon. Or make edible garlands out of popcorn or cranberries. Kids will enjoy helping out with simple yet fun projects. DIY garlands add homemade charm to your holiday decor.
The result will be a gorgeous, joyful garland display you can enjoy throughout the holiday season.
It doesn’t get much better than relaxing by a cozy fire, with a festive garland sparkling nearby and your favorite holiday music playing. That’s the stuff holiday memories are made of!
