How I Style Garland on Our Stove Hood, Mantel & 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 put them wherever your hood design allows. I’ve used this method for years with reliable results.

The hooks blend in easily—mine are white and get covered by the garland once it’s fluffed. If the hook shows a little, you can tuck branches around it to hide it.

Many garlands have built-in loops. I usually tie a piece of twine or heavy-duty string through those loops so I can secure the string to the hook. Sometimes you can hook the garland directly onto the hook, but tying gives extra security. Two things are important to prevent the garland from falling:

First, follow the manufacturer’s instructions when attaching adhesive hooks. Make sure the surface is clean, free of oils, and dry. Press and hold the hook in place as directed and allow any recommended cure time before hanging heavy decorations.

Second, tie your string or twine tightly so it cannot come undone. A secure knot will keep the garland in place.

Why mine hasn’t fallen:

1) I use lightweight garland.

2) My hood has a ledge where the hooks can be attached, which helps bear the weight.

3) I use appropriate hooks and follow the attachment instructions carefully, including cleaning the surface to remove grease.

How to Hang Garland on a Mantel

On our mantel I use the same adhesive hooks placed toward the back of the mantel top, spacing three or four along the length so the garland’s weight is evenly distributed. This keeps everything secure without visible hardware at the front edge.

If you prefer something more permanent, angled nails driven into the mantel make sturdy anchor points for tying string or ribbon. If you’re concerned about visible holes later, plan for easy filling.

Another simple approach is to lay garland across the top of the mantel without fastening it. This works best if your mantel is wide, the garland is light, and you don’t need draping swags. I often choose this minimalist option when the mantel depth allows.

Leaving garland simply laid on the mantel has benefits: it’s safer around children and pets, reduces risk near a fire, and avoids damaging the mantel or wall. However, hooks give extra security, especially if you want swags or heavier garlands.

Be cautious about placing adhesive hooks too close to a hot fireplace; heat can weaken the adhesive. Position hooks toward the back or side of the mantel away from direct heat, or use alternative anchoring methods.

Some people use specialized mantel hooks or stocking holders for both function and style. We keep stocking holders for displays but remove them when pets are around to avoid them being pulled down.

How to Hang Garland on the Staircase

There are commercial staircase garland ties you can use, but I usually secure garland with ribbon or twine. It’s a simple, effective solution that suits our casual style. If you prefer a tidier look—especially for a grand, open staircase—those ties are a great option.

On our small staircase I tie the garland at the top of the handrail so it can’t slip forward, then add another tie where I want a swoop to hold the shape, and finally secure it at the newel post. This spacing keeps the garland stable and creates gentle swags.

You can tuck some greenery around the knots to conceal the ribbon or twine. I don’t mind the look of matching ribbon or rustic twine, but if the backside of the railing is visible you might prefer special ties for a neater finish.

If you have other tips or tools for hanging garland, feel free to share them in the comments.

Inspiration:

I favor simple greenery, and faux garland is a reliable choice each holiday season. For more ideas on mixing garlands and adding unique sprigs, see my Christmas house tour post for examples and sources of the greenery I used. These examples show how a few well-placed pieces can create a warm, cohesive look.

Below are some common types of garland I use year after year.

Greenery / Garland Sources:

Cedar Garland

Pine Garland

Pine Branches

Stove Hood garland and other kitchen sources