Christmas garlands and wreaths are versatile décor pieces that can be used throughout your home. They instantly add warmth and seasonal charm to spaces like doors, mantels, and staircases.
In this video, designer Jennifer Lutz shows just how easy it is to decorate Christmas garlands and wreaths. Watch as she transforms our BH Fraser Fir® Garland and Wreath into three distinct looks, then follow along with the step-by-step instructions below to recreate them at home.
Before Getting Started: Fluff Your Artificial Christmas Wreaths and Garlands
Before styling, take a few moments to fluff your artificial greenery to achieve the fullness and shape you want. Follow these simple tips to help your wreaths and garlands look their best:
- Place your wreath or garland on a flat surface. When fluffing a garland, be sure to straighten its spine first.
- Hold the greenery steady with one hand. Using your other hand, gently separate and spread the branch tips outward and away from the frame. Start with the bottom tips and work your way up.
- Temporarily hang each piece on a vertical surface within easy reach, such as a banister. This makes it easier to spot gaps and adjust the foliage until you achieve your desired shape. Once you’re finished fluffing, your greenery is ready to be displayed beautifully throughout your home.
Cozy Cabin Christmas Theme
Set the mood for a warm and cozy holiday retreat with this inviting decorating theme. Achieve the look by layering textured ribbon with natural elements like antlers and pinecones to create a rustic yet refined seasonal display.
You will need:
You will need:
- Garland
- Wreath
- Mercury glass ornaments
- Two types of wired ribbon (4.5-inch and 2.5-inch widths)
- Large pinecones
- Faux antler picks
For the Garland
Step 1: Layer two ribbon sizes in complementary colours. For this look, Jennifer paired a striped burlap ribbon with a plaid ribbon to add texture and visual interest.
Step 2: Tuck the ribbons into the garland every 8 to 12 inches. Secure the ribbon by gently tucking it into the greenery at regular intervals to create a flowing, balanced look without visible fasteners.
Step 3: Add your garland décor. Begin with the antler picks, then layer in the mercury glass ornaments, followed by the pinecones. Distribute each element evenly throughout the garland to create depth, texture, and a balanced, finished look.
Insider’s Tip
For the Wreath
Step 1: Use the same ribbons to create a bow for the wreath. Choose the ribbons you used on the garland to tie the look together and create a cohesive, coordinated wreath display.
Step 2: Create one loop and twist the ribbon so the top layer faces outward. This step ensures the patterned or finished side of the ribbon remains visible, giving your bow a polished, professional look.
Step 3: Wrap the ribbon around your thumb from front to back, then create an opening to pull another loop through. This technique helps build volume and structure, allowing the bow to take shape evenly as you continue looping the ribbon.
Step 4: Adjust the loops for fullness and balance. Once all the loops are formed, gently pull out the sides and fine-tune the shape until the bow looks full, even, and well-balanced.
Step 5: Tuck and secure the ribbon tails. Weave the ribbon tails in and out along the wreath to create movement and continuity. Secure the bow using floral wire, or attach it directly to the wreath’s wired branches for a clean, seamless finish.
Step 6: Add antler picks and pinecones to match the garland. Place the antler picks first, then fill in with pinecones to create a cohesive look that ties the wreath seamlessly to the garland décor.
Floral Christmas Theme
Create a charming and luxurious look with oversized florals, sparkling picks, and plush velvets and plaids. This magnolia wreath and garland pairing, accented with rich colours, bold textures, and a subtle touch of shimmer, creates a stunning backdrop for your holiday celebrations.
You will need:
- Garland
- Wreath
- Oversized white magnolia branch picks
- Metallic plume branch picks
- 4-inch wired velvet and plaid ribbon
For the Garland
Step 1: Layer and tuck your ribbon along the garland branches. Work the ribbon into the greenery by gently tucking it between branches, allowing it to flow naturally and create depth and texture throughout the garland.
Step 2: Place the larger picks first. For this look, begin with the magnolia branch picks, spacing them evenly along the garland to establish structure before layering in smaller accents.
Step 3: Add the metallic plume branch picks. Layer the metallic plume picks throughout the garland to introduce shimmer and contrast, balancing them evenly with the larger magnolia branches for a polished, cohesive look.
Step 4: Step back and check for balance. Take a moment to view the garland from a distance and ensure the décor looks evenly spaced and visually balanced. Make small adjustments as needed for a polished, finished look.
For the Wreath
Step 1: Tuck the ribbon clockwise along the wreath. Work the ribbon into the greenery in a clockwise direction, using the wired branches to hold it securely in place as you go.
Step 2: Create a rosette bow using the same ribbon. Form five large loops, then arrange and fan them out so the bow resembles a flower. Adjust the loops as needed to create a full, balanced shape.
Step 3: Secure and fluff the bow. Fasten the base of the bow with a green pipe cleaner or floral wire. Gently pull the ribbon loops apart and fluff them to create a fuller, more polished look.
Step 4: Attach the bow to the wreath. Secure the bow in place using floral wire or by fastening it directly to the wreath’s wired foliage to ensure it stays firmly positioned and looks neatly finished.
Step 5: Place the oversized magnolia pick near the bow. Now that your ribbon wreath is complete, position the oversized magnolia pick close to the bow to create a focal point and add balance to the overall design.
Step 6: Add metallic plume picks throughout the wreath. Finish by spacing the metallic plume picks evenly around the wreath to introduce shimmer and tie the look together with a polished, cohesive finish.
Insider’s Tip
Classic Christmas Theme
Nothing says Christmas quite like traditional greens, snow-covered berries and pinecones, and festive glitter ribbon. Pulled together, they create a timeless display for many celebrations to come.
You will need:
- Garland
- Wreath
- 4-inch wired glitter ribbon
- Frosted pinecones
- Red berry picks
- Eucalyptus picks
How To Create Scalloped Ribbons:
Step 1: Using two feet of ribbon, start at the centre and create three scallops or fan-shaped loops. Work from the middle outward, shaping the ribbon evenly to form soft curves that will add volume and structure to your décor.
Step 2: Staple the fan at the base to create a looped bow. Secure the ribbon at the bottom of the scallops to hold the loops in place and maintain their shape as you continue decorating.
Step 3: Create ribbon tails and fluff the bow. Form tails with the ribbon and trim the ends into a V shape for a polished finish. Before adding the ribbon to your greenery, gently pull apart each scallop to fluff the bow and give it a full, dimensional look.
For the Garland
Step 1: Insert the snowy eucalyptus picks into the tips of your garland. Place the eucalyptus picks evenly along the outer edges of the garland to create a soft, layered look that adds depth and a wintry touch to the greenery.
Step 2: Add the berry picks and pinecones. Layer in the frosted red berry picks first, then tuck in the pinecones to introduce colour, texture, and a classic holiday finish to your garland.
Step 3: Add the scalloped bows. Fluff the loops to create a full, dimensional shape, then weave the remaining ribbon in and out of the greenery to blend it seamlessly into the garland.
Step 4: Adjust the decorations for balance and fullness. Make final adjustments to ensure all elements are evenly spaced, well fluffed, and visually balanced for a polished, finished look.
Insider’s Tip
For the Wreath
Coordinate your wreath with the garland by layering snowy eucalyptus, berries, pinecones, and scalloped ribbon on one side of the wreath. This creates a cohesive, designer-inspired look that ties both pieces together beautifully.
Decorating Tip: How to Layer Garlands
No matter which theme you choose, layering garlands helps your décor look fuller, richer, and more polished. Follow these simple steps to achieve a beautifully styled result:
- Start with a greenery base. Fluff the branches so the garland looks full and natural before adding any accents.
- Secure as you go. Use floral wire or discreet hooks to hold each garland in place and prevent shifting.
- Add dimension with beads. Drape bead garlands in loose, natural waves rather than pulling them tight for a softer, more elegant look.
- Weave in ornament strands. Tuck them slightly behind the greenery to create depth instead of laying them flat on top.
- Cluster ornaments for impact. Group ornaments in small clusters and mix finishes such as matte, glossy, and glittered to add visual interest and dimension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Christmas wreaths and garlands:
How Do I Put a Ribbon Around a Garland?
You can shape wired ribbon into bows or simply layer and tuck it directly into the garland’s foliage. Helpful supplies for securing ribbon include green pipe cleaners, staples, floral wire, or floral tape. Use whichever option works best to keep your ribbon neatly in place on garlands and wreaths.
How Do I Decorate the Front Door with a Christmas Garland?
Drape a festive garland around the door frame and secure it with hooks. Add a coordinating wreath to the door for a cohesive holiday look. You can also wrap garlands around porch steps, railings, or stair bannisters to extend the décor.
What Should I Use to Hang a Christmas Garland or Wreath?
To avoid hammering nails or drilling holes, use adhesive hooks, ribbon, or craft wire to hang wreaths and garlands. These options provide a secure hold while protecting your doors and walls. Refer to our hanging greenery guide for more tips.
How Can I Make Inexpensive Christmas Garlands Look Better?
Wired ribbons and decorative picks are great for enhancing garlands and wreaths, as they are easy to shape and weave through greenery. You can also use items you already have at home, such as Christmas tree ornaments, floral stems, leaves, or branches, to add interest and personality.
How Do I Clean and Maintain Artificial Christmas Garlands and Wreaths?
Gently remove dust using a feather duster or a hairdryer set to a cool setting. Be sure to clean your greenery before packing it away for storage to keep it looking fresh and well-maintained for future seasons.
We hope these do-it-yourself decorating ideas inspire you to get creative with your wreaths and garlands. Click the button below to explore our full collection of Christmas greenery and find the perfect pieces to complete your holiday décor.