DIY GARLAND IDEAS
A few readers asked about the felt garland I mentioned in my Christmas Home Tour. It’s inspired by a piece I saw in Country Living and it really is as simple as it looks. I don’t do complicated crafts—this is the kind of project I enjoy: quick, inexpensive and kid-friendly. If you want fancy, this isn’t for you. If you want easy, useful and charming, read on.
I make an easy Christmas garland every year, so I’ll share the felt version plus a couple of other simple garlands I’ve made over the years. These are perfect for crafting with children during holiday breaks, and having supplies on hand will make you feel organized and ready for a rainy afternoon. They also photograph nicely if you’re a blogger and want to share your seasonal decor.
These projects boost your confidence, entertain the kids and add a cozy touch to your home.
FELT GARLAND
Materials: felt rectangles (any color), scissors, needle, dental floss, small ornaments or bells (optional).
1. Cut the felt into squares or rectangles—no need to be perfect. I usually make 2-inch pieces but any size works.
2. Thread dental floss onto a needle. Dental floss is thin, strong and works wonderfully for garlands.
3. Pierce each felt piece with the needle and slide them onto the floss. Space them as you like.
4. Tie knots at each end, leaving enough floss to hang.
5. If you like, add small bells, ornaments or lightweight trinkets using ornament hangers so you can swap decorations later.
6. Step back and admire your simple, festive garland.
PRETTY PAPER GARLAND
This is a great way to reuse old holiday cards or use scrapbook paper. Use cookie cutters as templates to trace and cut out shapes, or press a cookie cutter over the paper and cut around it. Punch a small hole near the top of each shape and string them on ribbon or twine. This makes a delicate, colorful garland that’s perfect for mantels, windows or doorways.
COOKIE CUTTER GARLAND
Don’t toss your metal cookie cutters after baking—string them on ribbon for an instant rustic or farmhouse-style garland. Mix shapes and sizes, and tie ribbon through the handles or around each cutter. This version is great for kitchens or casual holiday displays.
BEADS & POM POM GARLAND
For a playful, textured garland, use beads and craft pom-poms (the fuzzy craft balls) threaded on strong dental floss. In the past I used jewelry cord and it eventually broke, so I now prefer dental floss for its surprising strength and low cost. Alternate beads and pom-poms, vary colors and spacing, and tie off the ends with a loop for hanging.
These three garland ideas are inexpensive, fast to assemble and adaptable to your decor. Use them together for layered mantel decor or spread them through your home for cohesive, handmade charm. Enjoy crafting—and remember, simple projects often make the biggest impact.