The safest way to hang garland on a staircase is to tie it on with soft or reusable fasteners (velvet ribbon, reusable zip ties or pipe cleaners) every foot or two, with felt between the fastener and the wood, and to keep the top of the handrail clear so people can still hold it. Whether you prefer a straight run or elegant swags, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for a beautiful and damage-free display.
Measuring Your Staircase for Garland
Before you start, you need to know how much garland to buy. The amount depends on whether you want a straight run or swags.
For a straight run, simply measure the length of your handrail from one end to the other. Add a few extra feet for overlapping and adjusting. Garland is easier to trim than to stretch, so round up.
For swags, you’ll create loops of garland between balusters or posts. Measure the distance between each attachment point, then multiply by 1.5 to 2 to account for the drop of each swag. For example, if your railing is 10 feet long and you want swags every 2 feet, you’ll need roughly 15 to 20 feet of garland. You can always trim excess, so it’s better to have too much than too little. Consider using garland by the length to match your measurements exactly.
Choosing Between Real and Faux Garland
Real garland, like pine or fir, has a wonderful fragrance but can dry out quickly indoors. It sheds needles and may drip sap onto your banister. Faux garland is made from materials like PVC or silk and is designed to last for years. It’s lighter, easier to work with, and won’t damage the wood. For staircases, faux garland is often the better choice because it holds its shape and doesn’t require watering. If you do use real garland, place a protective barrier like felt pads under any attachment points.
Damage-Free Attachment Methods
The key to hanging garland without damaging your banister is using the right supplies. Here are several methods that work well on wood, metal, or painted railings. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first if you’re unsure about a product.
| Method | Best Use | Damage Risk | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reusable zip ties | Securing garland to balusters or the handrail | Low | Easy |
| Pipe cleaners | Attaching small accents or lightweight garland | Very low | Very easy |
| Velvet ribbon | Tying garland to the banister for swags | None | Moderate |
| Felt pads | Placing under hooks or clips for extra protection | None | Easy |
| Removable hooks | Hanging garland on walls or posts near the staircase | Low | Easy |
Reusable zip ties are a popular choice because they are strong and easy to remove. Wrap them loosely around the baluster and garland, then cinch them just tight enough to hold. Pipe cleaners work well for securing small items like ornaments or lights. Velvet ribbon adds a decorative touch while protecting the wood. Felt pads can be cut to size and placed under any attachment to prevent scratches. Removable hooks are useful for attaching garland to walls or newel posts, but make sure they are rated for the weight of your garland. For a secure hold, consider reusable zip ties for your project.
How to Hang Garland in a Straight Run
A straight run of garland follows the line of the handrail. It’s simple and elegant. Follow these steps:
- Measure and cut your garland to the desired length, adding extra for overlap.
- Start at one end of the handrail. Attach the end of the garland using a reusable zip tie or velvet ribbon. Wrap it around the baluster or handrail, but not too tight to avoid marking.
- Continue along the railing, securing the garland every 1 to 2 feet. Use the same method, ensuring the garland lies flat and even.
- At the other end, trim any excess garland and secure the end.
- Fluff the garland to fill in gaps and adjust the placement. Add lights or accents as desired.
For a polished look, tuck the ends of zip ties or ribbon out of sight. You can also weave a ribbon through the garland to hide attachment points.
How to Hang Garland in Swags with Bows
Swags create a dramatic, festive look by allowing the garland to dip between attachment points. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Determine the spacing for your swags. A common pattern is to attach garland at the top of each baluster or at intervals along the handrail.
- Cut lengths of velvet ribbon or use reusable zip ties for each attachment point. Attach them loosely to the balusters or handrail.
- Start at one end. Secure the garland at the first attachment point, then let it drop to create a swag. Bring it up to the next point and secure it. Adjust the depth of the swag by pulling the garland tighter or looser.
- Continue until you reach the end. Trim any excess garland.
- Add bows at each attachment point to cover the ties. Use wide velvet ribbon for a luxurious accent. You can also add ornaments or picks for extra flair.
Bows can be pre-made or tied from ribbon. Attach them with pipe cleaners or thin wire to keep them in place.
Adding Lights to Your Staircase Garland
Lights make your garland glow. For staircases, battery-operated lights are often the safest and easiest option because they don’t require a nearby outlet. Look for lights with a UL, ETL, or CSA certification for safety. Plug-in lights can work if you have an outlet nearby, but you’ll need to hide the cord carefully.
To hide cords, run them along the handrail or under the garland. Use small clips or pipe cleaners to secure the wire every few inches. Avoid trailing cords on the steps where they could be a tripping hazard. If using battery packs, place them in a decorative basket or behind a bow at the end of the railing. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for indoor use and never leave lights on unattended.
Adding Ribbon and Other Accents
Ribbon adds color and texture to your garland. Wide velvet ribbon is a classic choice for staircases. Weave it through the garland in a spiral or drape it in loops. You can also tie bows at intervals. For a cohesive look, match the ribbon to your other Christmas decorations, such as those on your mantel. If you’re decorating your mantel as well, check out our guide on how to decorate a Christmas mantel for coordinating ideas.
Other accents include ornaments, berries, pinecones, and picks. Attach them with pipe cleaners or floral wire. For a natural look, use wooden or felt ornaments that won’t scratch the banister. Consider using wide velvet ribbon for a rich, damage-free finish.
Safety Considerations for Staircase Decor
Safety is paramount when decorating stairs. The handrail must remain easy to grasp for everyone using the stairs. Avoid wrapping garland so tightly that it covers the rail entirely. Leave sections of the handrail bare or use thin ribbon that doesn’t interfere with grip.
Ensure no cords or garland trail onto the steps where they could cause trips. Secure all attachments firmly so nothing falls off. If you use candles nearby, keep them away from the garland and never leave them unattended. If you buy artificial garland, look for one labeled flame-resistant. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any electrical decorations.
To carry the look outside, see our Christmas front porch ideas for extending your theme to the entryway.
FAQ
How much garland do I need for a staircase?
Measure the length of your handrail. For a straight run, use that measurement plus a little extra for the ends. For swags, a common rule of thumb is 1.5 to 2 times the railing length, depending on how deep you want each swag.
Can I use adhesive hooks on a banister?
Be careful: removing adhesive can lift varnish or paint on wood. Ties are usually the safer choice on the rail itself. If you do use removable adhesive hooks, test one in a hidden spot first and choose hooks rated for the weight of your garland.
How do I keep garland from sliding down?
Secure it with reusable zip ties or velvet ribbon at intervals. Make sure it’s tight but not damaging. For extra grip, use felt pads under the attachments.
Is it safe to put lights on staircase garland?
Yes. Battery-operated lights avoid cords on the stairs altogether; if you use plug-in lights, secure the cord along the rail so nothing trails onto the steps, and check for a certification mark such as UL or ETL.
With the right approach, you can enjoy a beautifully decorated staircase that stays secure and damage-free. Take your time measuring and attaching, and your garland will look fantastic throughout the holiday season.
