How I Hang Garland on Our Stove Hood, Mantel, and Staircase

How to Hang Garland on the Stove Hood

For my stove hood garland I use small adhesive hooks with a sticky back. I place one hook on each side of the hood’s flat ledge, though you can position them wherever your hood’s design allows. I’ve used this method for several seasons with reliable results.

Because my hooks are white and the garland covers them, they are barely noticeable. If a hook shows slightly, you can fluff the branches around it to hide it from view.

Many garlands come with loops on the ends. I usually tie a length of twine or heavy-duty string through those loops so I can secure the garland to the hooks. In some cases you can loop the garland directly onto the hook. The key is ensuring the garland stays put, so follow two main steps:

First, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching the adhesive hooks. Clean the surface thoroughly—remove any oil or residue—so the adhesive can bond properly. Allow the adhesive to set firmly, per the package directions, before hanging anything heavy.

Second, tie your string or twine tightly and securely so it won’t come undone.

Why mine hasn’t fallen:

1) I use a lightweight garland that doesn’t pull hard on the adhesive,

2) my hood has a ledge where the hook sits, which helps support the weight,

3) I use the right type of hook and follow the manufacturer’s instructions—especially cleaning the surface first so there is no oil residue.

How to Hang Garland on a Mantel

On the mantel I use the same adhesive hooks, set toward the back of the mantel top so I can tie the garland to them. Using three or four hooks helps distribute the weight evenly and keeps the garland secure.

Alternately, you can place angled nails in discreet spots and tie the garland to those. If the holes will be visible later, be prepared to fill them cleanly.

Sometimes I don’t attach the garland at all. If your mantel is wide enough, the garland is light, and you don’t want dramatic swags, you can simply lay the garland along the mantel surface. This approach is simple and can be practical when you want minimal hanging.

Leaving garland laid across the mantel has a few advantages: it’s less tempting for pets and children to pull down, it’s safer around open flames if you use your fireplace, and it avoids making holes or other damage to the mantel or wall.

Hooks make the display feel more secure, so if you’re unsure, adhesive hooks are a good choice. Keep them away from direct heat above a fireplace, though, because the heat can soften the adhesive. Position them on the mantel back or to the side away from the heat source.

Some people use dedicated stocking hooks or stocking holders; we have holders for display but don’t leave them out long because our dogs have knocked them down in the past.

How to Hang Garland on the Staircase

There are special staircase garland ties available, but I often secure our stair garland with ribbon or twine. It’s a simple, effective solution that suits our modest staircase.

I start by tying the garland at the top of the handrail so it can’t slide forward. I add another tie further down where the garland naturally swoops, and then secure it at the newel post. For lightweight garland this gives enough support and keeps the shape I want.

You can tuck greenery around the ties to conceal them on the front-facing side. I don’t mind visible twine or ribbon when it fits the style, but if you have a prominent open staircase, dedicated garland ties will give a tidier look.

If you have other tricks or favorite tools for hanging garland, I’d love to hear them in the comments.

Inspiration:

For more ideas, I share how I mix different garlands and greenery in a seasonal house tour. I prefer simple greenery and often use faux garland because it’s classic and reusable. Below are some of the types of greenery I use regularly.

Greenery / Garland Sources:

Cedar garland

Pine garland

Pine branches

Stove hood garland and other kitchen-friendly options