Christmas garlands and wreaths are versatile décor pieces that work beautifully throughout your home. They instantly add warmth and character to key spaces such as doors, mantels, and staircases.
In this video, designer Jennifer Lutz shows just how easy it is to decorate Christmas greenery. Watch as she transforms our BH Fraser Fir® Garland and Wreath into three different looks, then follow the step-by-step instructions below.
Before You Get Started: Fluff Your Christmas Wreaths and Garlands
Before styling, take a few moments to fluff your Christmas greenery to achieve the fullness and shape you want. These simple tips will help your wreaths and garlands look their best:
- Place your wreath or garland on a flat surface. When working with a garland, make sure the spine is fully straightened first.
- Hold the frame steady with one hand, then use your other hand to gently separate and spread each branch tip outward. Start with the lower tips and work your way up for an even, natural shape.
- Temporarily hang each piece on a vertical surface within easy reach, such as a bannister. This makes it easier to spot gaps and adjust the foliage until you are happy with the overall look. Once fluffing is complete, your greenery is ready to be displayed and styled.
Cosy Cabin Christmas Theme
Set the scene for a warm and cosy retreat with this decorating theme. Create the look by layering textured ribbon with natural elements such as antlers and pinecones for a relaxed, lodge-inspired feel.
You will need:
You will need:
- Garland
- Wreath
- Mercury glass ornaments
- Two types of wired ribbon (10 cm wide and 5.5 cm wide)
- Large pinecones
- Faux antler picks
For the Garland
Step 1: Layer two ribbon widths in complementary colours. For this look, Jennifer paired a striped burlap ribbon with a plaid ribbon to create texture and visual interest.
Step 2: Tuck the ribbons into the garland at intervals of approximately 20 to 30 centimetres to create an even, flowing look.
Step 3: Add your garland décor. Begin with the antler picks, then layer in the mercury glass ornaments, followed by the pinecones to create depth and a balanced, natural look.
Insider's Tip
For the Wreath
Step 1: Use the same ribbons to create a bow for the wreath.
Step 2: Create one loop, then twist the ribbon so the patterned or finished side faces outward.
Step 3: Wrap the ribbon around your thumb from front to back, then create an opening to pull another loop through.
Step 4: Once all the loops are formed, gently pull out the sides and adjust them until the bow looks full, even, and well-balanced.
Step 5: Tuck the ribbon tails in and out around the entire wreath. Secure the bow using floral wire or use the wreath’s wired branches to hold everything neatly in place.
Step 6: Add antler picks and pinecones to the wreath to coordinate with the garland and create a cohesive, layered look.
Floral Christmas Theme
Create a charming and inviting look with oversized florals, sparkling picks, and plush velvets and plaids. This magnolia wreath and garland combination, accented with rich colours, bold textures, and a touch of shimmer, creates a luxurious backdrop that instantly elevates your décor.
You will need:
- Garland
- Wreath
- Oversized white magnolia branch picks
- Metallic plume branch picks
- 10 cm wide wired velvet and plaid ribbon
For the Garland
Step 1: Layer and tuck the ribbon along the branches of the garland, working it in and out to create a soft, flowing look.
Step 2: Add the larger decorative picks first. For this look, begin by placing the magnolia branch picks evenly throughout the garland to establish the overall shape and balance.
Step 3: Next, add the metallic plume branch picks, spacing them evenly throughout the garland to introduce shimmer and visual interest.
Step 4: Step back and review the garland to make sure the décor is evenly spaced and visually balanced. Adjust the placement of ribbons and picks as needed until the overall look feels cohesive and polished.
For the Wreath
Step 1: Tuck the ribbon clockwise around the wreath, using the branches to hold it securely in place.
Step 2: Create a rosette bow using the same ribbon. Form five large loops, then arrange and shape them so they resemble a flower for a full, decorative finish.
Step 3: Secure the base of the bow with a green pipe cleaner or floral wire. Gently separate and fluff the ribbon loops to create a fuller, more balanced look.
Step 4: Attach the bow to the wreath using floral wire or secure it directly to the wired foliage to keep it firmly in place.
Step 5: Once the ribbon wreath is complete, position the oversized magnolia pick close to the bow to create a balanced focal point.
Step 6: Finally, add the metallic plume picks throughout the wreath, spacing them evenly to introduce shimmer and complete the layered look.
Insider's Tip
Classic Christmas Theme
Nothing captures the spirit of Christmas quite like classic greenery paired with snow-dusted berries, pinecones, and glittering ribbon. When styled together, these elements create a timeless display that can be enjoyed year after year.
You will need:
- Garland
- Wreath
- 10 cm wide wired glitter ribbon
- Frosted pinecones
- Red berry picks
- Eucalyptus picks
How To Create Scalloped Ribbons
Step 1: Using approximately 60 centimetres of ribbon, start from the centre and create three scallops or fan-shaped folds.
Step 2: Staple the fan at the base to form a looped bow, making sure the folds are secure and evenly shaped.
Step 3: Create ribbon tails and trim the ends into a V shape. Before attaching the ribbon to your greenery, gently pull apart each scallop to fluff the bow and give it a fuller, more dimensional look.
For the Garland
Step 1: Insert the snow-dusted eucalyptus picks into the tips of the garland, spacing them evenly to create a soft, layered base.
Step 2: Next, add the berry picks and pinecones, spacing them evenly throughout the garland to build depth and create a balanced, natural look.
Step 3: Add the scalloped bows and gently fluff the loops to create a full, rounded shape. Tuck the remaining ribbon in and out of the greenery to blend it seamlessly into the garland.
Step 4: Make final adjustments to ensure all decorations are well fluffed, evenly spaced, and visually balanced.
Insider's Tip
For the Wreath
Coordinate your wreath with the garland by styling them together. Layer the snow-dusted eucalyptus, berries, pinecones, and scalloped ribbon to one side of the wreath to create a cohesive and well-balanced look.
Decorating Tip: How to Layer Garlands
No matter which theme you choose, layering garlands helps your décor look fuller and more refined. Follow these simple steps for a balanced, professional finish:
- Start with a greenery base. Begin with a single garland and fluff the branches so it looks full and natural before adding anything else.
- Secure as you go. Use floral wire or hooks to hold the garlands in place as you layer, keeping everything neat and stable.
- Add dimension with beads. Drape bead garlands in loose, natural waves rather than pulling them tight. This creates movement and depth.
- Weave in ornament strands. Tuck ornament strands slightly behind the greenery instead of placing them flat on top to create a layered effect.
- Cluster ornaments for impact. Group ornaments in small clusters and mix finishes such as matte, glossy, and glittered to add visual interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Put Ribbon Around a Garland?
You can use wired ribbon shaped into bows or simply layer and tuck the ribbon directly into the garland’s foliage. To keep the ribbon secure, use green pipe cleaners, staples, floral wire, or floral tape. These supplies help hold the ribbon neatly in place on both garlands and wreaths.
How Do You Decorate a Front Door with a Christmas Garland?
Drape a garland around the door frame and secure it with hooks. Hang a coordinating wreath on the door to create a cohesive look. You can also wrap garlands along verandah steps or stair rails to extend the display.
What Can You Use to Hang a Garland or Wreath?
To hang wreaths and garlands without using nails or drilling holes, opt for adhesive hooks, ribbon, or craft wire. These options are easy to remove and help protect doors and walls while keeping your greenery secure. Read our guide to hanging greenery to learn more.
How Can You Make Christmas Garlands Look More Decorative?
Wired ribbon and decorative picks are ideal additions, as they are easy to shape and tuck into the greenery. You can also use items you already have at home, such as ornaments, flower stems, leaves, or branches, to add texture and visual interest.
How Do You Clean and Maintain Christmas Garlands and Wreaths?
Use a feather duster or a hairdryer set to a cool setting to remove dust from the foliage and decorative accents gently. Cleaning your greenery before storing it helps keep it in good condition and ready to display again.
We hope these do-it-yourself decorating ideas inspire you to get creative with your wreaths and garlands. Select the button below to explore our full collection of Christmas greenery and find the perfect pieces to complete your display.