How to Hang Christmas Garland on Mantels, Staircases and Doorways
A lush Christmas garland instantly makes a space feel festive. Draped over a mantel, wound along a staircase or framing a doorway, it adds greenery, colour and warmth to homes, shops and venues.
Hanging garland so it looks full and stays put is the tricky part. In this guide, we show you how to hang Christmas garland on mantels, staircases and doorways, and how to style it like a florist. If you’re looking for more inspiration, our post on festive Christmas garland ideas is a great place to start.
Key Takeaways
- Measure the space first and allow extra length for draping and swags.
- Fluff and shape artificial garland before you hang it.
- Use removable hooks, ties or florist wire to secure garland without damaging surfaces.
- Layer two garlands, such as pine with eucalyptus, for a fuller look.
- Finish with lights, Christmas flowers, picks and ribbon.
Before You Hang: Choose and Prepare Your Garland
Choosing a Christmas Garland
| Garland | Length | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Banff Mixed Real Touch Pine Garland | 180cm | Full, realistic mantels and doorways |
| Real Touch Norfolk Pine Garland | 180cm | Classic green and red styling |
| Red Berry Christmas Garland | 180cm | Adding colour to plain greenery |
| Flocked Pine Garland with Pine Cones | 183cm | Snowy, rustic looks |
| Artificial Pine Garland | 152cm | Layering and smaller spaces |
| Mixed Eucalyptus Garland | 180cm | Aussie native and coastal styles |
Measure and Fluff
Measure the length of your mantel, banister or door frame, then add extra for any draping or swags and for tails that hang down the sides. Several garlands can be joined end to end with florist wire. Before hanging, fluff each branch out in different directions so the garland looks full and natural.
How to Hang Christmas Garland in 3 Places
1On a Mantel
Best for: Living rooms, foyers and feature walls.
- Lay the garland along the mantel, letting the ends hang down each side.
- Secure it at each end and in the middle with removable adhesive hooks or weights, avoiding anything that could damage the surface.
- Raise or drop sections to create gentle waves rather than a straight line.
- Add candles, vases or decorations in front, keeping flames well away from greenery. LED candles are a safer choice.
For a fuller look, layer a eucalyptus garland over a pine garland so the two textures mix.
2On a Staircase
Best for: Entrances, homes and venues with a statement staircase.
- Start at the top of the banister and work down.
- Secure the garland to the rail every 50cm or so with ties, ribbon or florist wire, wrapped around the rail rather than the balusters.
- Either run it straight along the rail or create swags by letting it dip between ties.
- Finish each tie point with a bow to hide the fixings.
Keep the handrail usable and the stairs clear so everyone can use them safely.
3Around a Doorway
Best for: Front doors, shopfronts and internal archways.
- Fix removable hooks at the top corners and at the centre of the door frame.
- Hang the garland from the centre first, then the corners.
- Let the sides drop down the frame, stopping at about knee height or the floor, depending on the look you want.
- Make sure the door still opens and closes freely.
A doorway garland pairs perfectly with a wreath on the door. See our guide on how to make a Christmas wreath.
How to Style Your Garland Like a Florist
Once your garland is hung, it’s time to decorate it. Work in this order for the best result.
- Add lights: Weave LED string lights or fine LED lights on wire through the garland, tucking the wire into the branches.
- Add flowers: Wire in Christmas flower stems such as poinsettias or magnolias in odd-numbered clusters.
- Add picks and cones: Tuck in Christmas picks, berries and pine cones to fill gaps.
- Add ornaments: Wire on a few baubles in your colour palette.
- Add ribbon: Weave wired ribbon through the garland or add bows at key points. Our ribbon guide has more ideas.
Garland Tips for Shops and Events
In retail spaces, garland is a great way to frame windows, counters and entrances. Use the same garland and colours across the store for a coordinated look. Read our post on how wholesale garland and ribbons transform retail spaces for more ideas.
Common Garland Mistakes to Avoid
- Not fluffing the garland: flat, unshaped branches make even the best garland look thin.
- Buying too little: a garland that only just reaches the ends looks skimpy. Allow extra length.
- Too many colours: stick to a palette of two or three colours, plus greenery.
- Weak fixings: garland can be heavier than it looks once decorated, so secure it at regular points.
- Blocking walkways and doors: keep stairs, handrails and doors clear and easy to use.
Shop Christmas Garlands at Floral Craft
Find realistic pine, berry, flocked and eucalyptus Christmas garlands at Floral Craft, plus the flowers, picks and ribbon to style them.
Explore Our Christmas Range
Complete your look with wreaths, picks and Christmas ribbon, or browse the full Christmas collection.
Wholesale Supply Australia Wide
As a trade wholesaler based in Norwood, South Australia, we supply florists, retailers and event stylists with Christmas decorations and floristry supplies, delivered Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing, or contact our team for help choosing the right products.
FAQ
How do I hang garland on a mantel without nails?
Use removable adhesive hooks or mantel weights, placed at each end and in the middle. This holds the garland securely without damaging the surface.
How do I attach garland to a staircase?
Secure the garland to the handrail every 50cm or so with ties, ribbon or florist wire, and cover each tie with a bow.
How much garland do I need?
Measure the length of the space, then add extra for draping, swags and tails. Several garlands can be joined with florist wire for longer runs.
How do I make my garland look fuller?
Fluff every branch before hanging, layer two garlands together, and add flowers, picks and ribbon.
Can I use Christmas garland outdoors in Australia?
Yes. Artificial garland suits outdoor doorways and verandahs. Hang it in a sheltered spot where possible to help protect it from strong sun.
Can I add lights to my garland?
Yes. Weave string lights or fine LED lights on wire through the garland before adding flowers and ornaments.
Where can I buy wholesale Christmas garlands in Australia?
Floral Craft supplies wholesale Christmas garlands to florists, retailers and stylists, delivered Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing.