Attach Garland with Swags

What happens in this clip

To attach the garland to the staircase railing, the presenter uses twisty ties that are camouflaged to look like pine branches (often found at floral supply stores). Instead of simply laying the garland straight along the railing, she demonstrates securing it at strategic points to create a flowing, draped 'swag' effect. This involves attaching the garland higher at certain points and allowing it to hang loosely in between. She also shows how some garland branches can be used to twist and secure the garland directly to the railing. Once the basic shape is established, she mentions the importance of 'fluffing' out the individual branches of the garland to make it appear fuller.

Goal: Secure the garland to the railing in a flowing, aesthetic 'swag' pattern

What's used

Materials

• Christmas Garland
• Green Pine-Covered Twisty Ties
• Zip ties (if well-hidden)

About the full video

This project provides a comprehensive guide on how to decorate a staircase railing with Christmas garland and lights, emphasizing techniques for achieving a lush, natural, and evenly lit appearance. It covers initial preparation, proper light installation, creation of aesthetic 'swags,' and the addition of various decorative elements for a beautiful holiday display.

Step 4 of 5: Adjust and Secure Loose Sections

As you attach the garland, take breaks to step back and view it from different angles and distances. This allows you to identify any areas that look uneven, sag too much, or are not flowing as intended. Gently reposition the garland, ensuring it follows the natural lines of the banister. If a section appears to be drooping excessively, add another securing tie closer to that area. You might also need to gently fluff out the garland's branches to maintain its fullness and cover the attachment points as much as possible.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Hang Christmas Garland on a Staircase Banister Without Damage

1. Step 1: Inspect and Clean Banister

   • 0:05–0:10 Prepare the Staircase and Lights

2. Step 2: Pre-shape Garland

   • 2:45–4:29 Plan Garland Placement and Swag
   • 1:29–3:11 Decide on Garland Placement
   • 5:57–7:08 Fluffing and Shaping Garland Branches

3. Step 3: Attach Garland to Banister

   • 0:10–0:16 Attach Garland to the Railing
   • 0:16–0:25 Attach Garland to Stair Railing
   • 0:00–0:03 Drape and Secure Garland

4. Step 4: Adjust and Secure Loose Sections

   • 0:21–0:25 Make Final Adjustments
   • 0:21–0:25 Make Final Adjustments
   • 1:40–2:25 Attach Garland with Swags (this video)

5. Step 5: Add Embellishments (Optional)

   • 4:34–5:10 Attach Christmas Ornaments
   • 7:50–9:23 Attach Garland to Staircase
   • 4:52–6:07 Add Fairy Lights to Garland