Christmas garlands and wreaths are versatile pieces of décor you can use throughout your home. They instantly add warmth and cheer to any space, such as doors, mantels, and staircases.
In this video, designer Jennifer Lutz demonstrates how easy it is to decorate Christmas greenery. Watch how she transforms our BH Fraser Fir® Garland and Wreath into three different looks and read on for our step-by-step instructions.
Before Getting Started: Fluff Your Artificial Christmas Wreaths and Garlands
Before styling, take time to fluff artificial greenery to get the volume and fullness you want. Make them look their best with these quick tips:
- Place your wreath or garland on a flat surface. When fluffing a garland, make sure to straighten out its spine.
- Hold the foliage in place using one hand. With your other hand, individually spread branch tips up and out away from the frame. Begin from the bottom tips and work your way up.
- Temporarily hang each item on a vertical surface within easy reach, such as a bannister. This makes it easier to spot any gaps and adjust tips until you get the shape you want. When you’re done fluffing, your greenery is ready for display.
Cozy Cabin Christmas Theme
Set the scene for a warm and cozy retreat with this decorating theme. Get the look with layers of textured ribbon and natural elements like antlers and pinecones.
You will need:
You will need:
- Garland
- Wreath
- Mercury glass ornaments
- Two types of wired ribbon (4.5-inch and 2.5-inch wide)
- Large pinecones
- Faux antler picks
For the Garland
Step 1: Layer two sizes of ribbon with complementary colors. For this look, Jennifer paired a striped burlap ribbon with a plaid ribbon.
Step 2: Tuck the ribbons into the garland every 8 to 12 inches.
Insider’s Tip
For the Wreath
Step 2: Make one loop and twist the ribbon so the top layer faces outward
Step 4: After creating the loops, pull out the sides and adjust for a full, balanced look.
Step 5: Tuck the tails of the ribbons in and out along the entire wreath. Secure the bow using floral wire or use the wreath’s wired branches.
Step 6. Add antler picks and pinecones to match the garland.
Floral Christmas Theme
Create a charming look with oversized florals, sparkling picks, and plush velvets and plaids. This magnolia wreath and garland combination accented with rich colors, bold textures, and a bit of shimmer makes a luxurious backdrop for your festivities.
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 branches of your garland.
Step 2: Place the larger picks first. For this look, start with the magnolia branch picks.
Step 3: Next, add the metallic plume branch picks.
Step 4: Stand back and check if the décor looks balanced and evenly spaced.
For the Wreath
Step 1: Tuck the ribbon clockwise along your wreath. Use the branches to keep the ribbon in place.
Step 2: Create a rosette bow using the same ribbon. Make five large loops and arrange them to look like a flower.
Step 3: Secure the base of the bow with a green pipe cleaner or floral wire. Pull the ribbon apart and fluff for a fuller look.
Step 4: Fix the bow onto the wreath using floral wire or the wired foliage.
Step 5: Now that you have your ribbon wreath, place the oversized magnolia pick near the bow.
Step 6: Lastly, add metallic plume picks throughout the wreath.
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, work from the center and make three scallops or fans.
Step 3: Make tails with the ribbon and trim the edges into a V shape. Before adding the ribbon to your greenery, pull apart each scallop to fluff the bow.
For the Garland
Step 1: Insert the snowy eucalyptus picks into the tips of your garland.
Step 2: Next, add the berry picks and pinecones.
Step 3: Add the scalloped bows. Fluff the loops of the bows to create a full shape. Tuck the rest of the ribbon in and out of the greenery.
Step 4: Adjust decorations to make sure that everything is well-fluffed and balanced.
Insider’s Tip
For the Wreath
Coordinate your wreath with the garland. Layer the snowy eucalyptus, berries, pinecones, and scalloped ribbon to one side of the wreath.
Decorating Tip: How to Layer Garlands
No matter which theme you choose, layering garlands can make your décor look fuller and more polished. Try these simple steps:
1. Start with a greenery base. Fluff out the branches so your garland looks full and natural.
2. Secure as you go. Use floral wire or hooks to keep the garlands in place.
3. Add dimension with beads. Drape bead garlands in loose, natural waves instead of pulling them taut.
4. Weave in ornament strands. Tuck them slightly behind the greenery for depth rather than laying them flat on top.
5. Cluster ornaments for impact. Group them in small bunches and mix finishes (matte, glossy, glittered) for a dynamic look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about Christmas wreaths and garlands:
How To Put Ribbon Around a Garland?
You can use wired ribbon crafted into bows, or simply layer and tuck the ribbon into the garland’s foliage. Essential supplies to help secure your ribbon decorations include green pipe cleaners, staples, floral wire, and floral tape. Use any of these to help secure your ribbon to your garlands and wreaths.
How To Decorate a Front Door with Christmas Garland?
Drape a festive garland around the door frame, securing it with hooks. Hang a coordinating wreath on the door for a cohesive holiday display. You can also wrap Christmas garlands around porch steps or stair rails.
What To Use To Hang Up a Christmas Garland and Wreath?
To hang wreaths and garlands without hammering in nails or drilling holes in your walls and doors, use adhesive hooks, ribbons, or craft wire. Read our guide to hanging greenery to learn more.
How To Make Inexpensive Christmas Garlands Look Better?
Wired ribbons and decorative picks are best to use as garland and wreath decorations. They can be easily shaped and maneuvered through the greenery. You can also decorate with things that you have at home such as Christmas tree ornaments, flower stems, leaves, and branches.
How Do I Clean and Maintain My Artificial Christmas Garland and Wreath?
Use a feather duster or hairdryer on a cool setting to gently blow away dust from the tips and decorations. Do this before packing the greenery for storage to ensure they’re in good condition while stowed away.
We hope these do-it-yourself decorating ideas inspire you to express your creativity with your wreaths and garlands. Click the button below to see our full collection of Christmas greenery.