This year we updated our faux cedar garland to make it look fuller and more festive with just a few simple additions. I love the clean look of cedar or pine garland by itself, but layering and embellishing a strand can make it feel more custom, luxurious, and special without much effort or expense.
Why I Decorate for Christmas Early
You might wonder why our railing is already decorated. We start early so the house is ready when family arrives for Thanksgiving. It’s a choice that allows our home to feel both thankful and festive at the same time. In our house we often enjoy Thanksgiving near the Christmas tree.
Decorating earlier also makes the process more enjoyable for me. Getting the main work done before the busy season arrives removes stress and the mess, so we can relax and focus on family and gratitude. Instead of rushing, we get to enjoy the decorations throughout the season.
How Faux Garland Keeps Decorating Simple
Faux garland is ideal when you want to decorate early because it won’t dry out or shed needles across the floor. I still love fresh cedar and usually add some later, but using faux pieces means you can have a polished look without the upkeep. Last year we also used fresh garland on the porch to avoid storage issues.
Make Garland Look Fuller by Using Two or More Strands
I used the cedar garland I bought last year paired with an older garland already trimmed with pinecones and blue berries. We hung them together and the combination immediately felt richer and more interesting. It helps to have an extra pair of hands when hanging multiple strands, though it can be done solo if needed.
Because our railing is small, decorating is quick and low-cost—one of the perks of a smaller home. To achieve a fuller look you can layer different garlands or simply use multiple lengths of the same style. You can also embellish a single strand with accents for a similar effect.
How to Hang Two Garland Strands on a Stair Railing
Start by securing the base garland to the railing with twine, leaving the ends a bit long until you finish adjusting. Next, drape the second garland over the first and tie it in a few places so the layers sit together naturally. Tying the strands to each other in spots helps them stay aligned. Twine is a practical solution that adds a casual, homey touch without being obvious from a distance.
How to Add Dried Oranges to Your Garland
After layering the garlands we decided to add a small pop of color. Dried blood oranges offer warm, natural contrast against the green. To attach them, poke a small hole near the edge with a needle, thread clear fishing line through, and tie the pieces to the garland at spaced intervals. They add visual interest without overwhelming the design.
Add Nautical Rope and Bells for Extra Charm
We considered ribbon, but opted for nautical rope to suit our beach house. Instead of wrapping it conventionally, we tied a few decorative knots and attached a small set of bells for a vintage touch. The rope will naturally fray at the ends; gently separating the strands creates a tassel-like fringe that looks intentionally finished.
How to Keep Christmas Decorating Simple
It’s easy to keep adding accents, but sometimes simplicity is best. A few thoughtful elements on a staircase or mantel can feel complete and special. If inspiration strikes later, you can always add more, but finishing early means you can enjoy what you’ve created without last-minute stress.
More Ideas for Embellishing Christmas Garland
Look around your home for items that reflect your family’s personality and interests. Small, unexpected accents can make garland feel personal and memorable.
If you want to add an extra festive touch, consider:
favorite ornaments
small framed photos
stockings
teacups
string lights
ribbons
berries
rolled gratitude notes tied on with twine
glittered pinecones
dried citrus slices
faux or frosted apples
eucalyptus sprigs
faux poinsettias
holly
any foliage you have on hand
beads or faux birds
star garlands or snowflakes
faux frosted branches or shells
A quick brainstorming session often sparks new ideas—so don’t be surprised if you add another small detail after stepping back to assess your work.
What do you think of embellished garland?
Related posts and resources:
My two favorite faux Christmas garlands (+ tips for greenery and garland)
7 Simple Pieces I Love for Christmas Decorating (and why they make so much sense!)
How I Made My Covered Porch Feel Magical at Christmas (Simple Decorating Idea)
15 Charming Christmas Decorating Ideas To Try