A garland wreath is perfect blend of two classics: fullness of garland and neat shape of wreath. It looks lush from street, easy to customize for fall, Halloween, or Christmas, and you can make one in about an hour with simple supplies. Learn exactly how to build garland wreath start to finish, plus variations for every season.
What Is a Garland Wreath?
Traditional wreath built on round form with decorations attached all around. Garland wreath starts with long garland – rope of greenery, leaves, berries, fabric – and wraps/coils into wreath shape. Result thicker, softer, more textured than flat wreath, because garland layers create depth. Forgiving for beginners. If section looks thin, add another loop. If too full, fluff outward.
What You Will Need
- 1 wire wreath form 14-18 inches.
- 1-2 strands garland 6-9 feet each – faux greenery, autumn leaves, eucalyptus, or pine, depending season.
- Floral wire/zip ties green/clear.
- Hot glue gun.
- Scissors/wire cutters.
- Ribbon for hanging/bow 2 inches wide.
- Decorative accents: mini pumpkins, berries, pinecones, ornaments, dried flowers.
- Optional: small battery fairy lights.
Choose garland already full. Thin garlands need two strands to look lush, thick may need only one. Fall: warm tones maple, rust, gold, cream. Christmas: pine with berries/pinecones.
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Garland Wreath
Step 1: Prepare Form and Garland
Lay wire form flat. Uncoil garland, fluff each branch so looks full, not flat. If using two strands, lay side by side, twist ends together so behave as one thick garland.
Step 2: Attach Garland to Form
Start top. Use floral wire/zip tie to secure end of garland to wire ring. Wrap garland around form, keeping each loop close to previous so no wire shows. After every 2-3 wraps, add another tie. Work slowly around circle until return to top.
Step 3: Fill Gaps and Fluff
Turn over, check back for loose ends. Tuck stray stems back with hot glue. Flip front, fluff each branch outward. Step back few feet. If thin spots, tuck small sprigs leftover garland into those areas, glue in place.
Step 4: Add Seasonal Accents
Decide focal point – usually bottom or one side – cluster accents there. Fall: three mini pumpkins, few berries, plaid bow. Halloween: small bats, ghost, black ribbon. Christmas: pinecones, red berries, velvet bow. Glue each firmly, let cool before moving.
Step 5: Add Ribbon and Hang
Cut loop ribbon, attach back with floral wire. If want bow, make simple layered loop bow, glue front at focal point. Hang on over-door hook/removable adhesive hook. Step back sidewalk, check shape, fullness, bow position.
Tips for Full, Professional-Looking Wreath
Wrap in one direction only. Changing direction creates gaps/tangles. Keep garland tight against form. Loose wraps look messy, slide when door opens. Work with wreath flat, then hang to check. Gravity changes how garland falls, always final check on door. Use odd numbers for accents. Three pumpkins, five berries, seven leaves look more natural than even. If hang outdoors, use waterproof ribbon, secure every accent with both glue and wire so wind does not loosen.
Variations for Every Season
Fall Garland Wreath
Maple-leaf garland base, dried wheat, mini pumpkins, burlap bow. Warm neutrals/rust suit any porch.
Halloween Garland Wreath
Dark greenery/black garland, purple ribbon, small ghosts, bats, orange berries. Palette black, orange, purple reads clearly from street.
Christmas Garland Wreath
Pine garland, red berries, pinecones, gold ornaments, velvet bow. Strand warm-white fairy lights woven through makes it glow after dark.
Spring Garland Wreath
Eucalyptus/faux cherry blossom garland, pastel ribbon, small faux eggs, tiny flowers. Light colors/airy textures suit spring.
Everyday Greenery Wreath
Plain eucalyptus garland with no seasonal accents. Works year-round, clip small seasonal picks whenever want refresh.
How to Store Your Garland Wreath
After season, remove batteries from lights, store in large bag/box with tissue paper so garland does not crush. Hang in closet if possible rather than stacking heavy boxes on top. Well-stored can be reused several seasons – just refresh bow, replace faded accents next year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make a garland wreath?
Most finish 45-75 min. Garland wrapping longest, adding accents quick once base full.
How many feet of garland do I need?
For 14-16 inch form, one 6-9 foot garland usually enough. Fuller look or 18 inch form, use two strands.
Can I make garland wreath without hot glue gun?
Yes. Attach everything with floral wire/zip ties, use fabric glue for small accents. Hot glue faster, not required.
Will garland wreath hold up outdoors?
Yes, on covered porch, if use faux garland, waterproof ribbon, wire+glue for accents. Bring paper/fresh-flower accents inside heavy rain.
Make Your Garland Wreath This Weekend
Garland wreath proves beautiful seasonal decor does not need complicated. With one garland, one form, few accents, make wreath looking store-bought, feeling completely yours. Choose season, gather supplies, make one this weekend. Share photo in comments, tell us which season you made it for.