How to Securely Hang Garland for Outdoor Decor

Every winter, I watch so many beautiful garlands blow away or sag within days of hanging them.

Those hard-to-follow online tutorials made me think I needed professional skills to hang outdoor decorations properly.

But after years of trial and error, I’ve found simple ways to make garlands stay put through wind, rain, and snow. I want to share my tested methods that keep decorations looking fresh all season long.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to secure your garlands outdoors like a pro, using basic supplies you probably already have at home.

Let’s make sure your decorations stay beautiful from day one until you’re ready to take them down.

How to Choose the Right Garland for Outdoor Use?

Finding the perfect outdoor garland doesn’t have to be hard. I’ve learned through experience that material quality makes all the difference between decorations that look fresh and those that fade quickly.

For outdoor spaces, I strongly suggest picking garlands made from UV-resistant PVC or polyethylene.

These materials stand up well to sun exposure and won’t lose their color. I’ve found that cheaper plastic options tend to break down after just a few weeks outside.

Here’s what I look for when selecting an outdoor garland:

• Check the label for “UV-protected” or “weather-resistant” materials
• Feel the branches – they should be firm yet flexible
• Look for secure connections between sections
• Check wire thickness – thicker wire means better shape retention
• Confirm the garland is rated for outdoor use

The right length matters too.

I always measure my space first and add an extra 20% for swags and draping. This helps create those beautiful dips between hanging points.

Measuring and Planning Your Space

Getting the right measurements makes all the difference in how your garland looks. I start by measuring my door frame’s full width and height with a tape measure.

Then, I add an extra 1.5 times that length to allow for natural draping.

For the perfect layout, I follow these steps:

• Mark the center point of each area first
• Plan for 1-foot swags between attachment points
• Add 2 feet extra on each end for natural drops
• Consider overlaps at corners if wrapping around

When working with railings or columns, I:

• Measure the full length plus any turns
• Count attachment points every 2-3 feet
• Plan spaces for bows or decorations
• Leave room for securing ends neatly

Essential Tools for Hanging Outdoor Garland

How to Hang Garland Outside: Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Garland

Getting your garland ready is the first key step. Take your 25-foot garland and lay it flat on a clean floor.

To find the perfect cutting point, bring the ends together – this gives you the center. Make your cut with wire cutters, and immediately secure both ends with zip ties to keep everything neat and tidy.

Key points:

• Work on a clean, flat surface
• Match the ends perfectly for an even cut
• Secure cut ends right away

Step 2: Door Frame Preparation

Before hanging starts, your door frame needs three strong anchor points. Take a careful look at your door frame and:

• Mark spots one inch inside each top corner
• Add a center mark at the top of the frame
• Hammer nails carefully at each marked spot
• Test each nail to make sure it’s sturdy

Step 3: First Layer Installation

Now comes the main part. The key to good-looking garland is making sure it all faces the same direction. Start your hanging process by:

• Beginning at the top left nail
• Securing the first end with a zip tie
• Creating a natural-looking drape to the right
• Fastening the end point with another zip tie

Step 4: Adding Extra Details

Let’s make your garland stand out.

I’ve found that adding extra touches makes a big difference:

• Create small bundles of extra greenery
• Wrap each bundle with floral wire, leaving ends free
• Tuck bundles into main garland
• Secure pinecones with wire if using them
• Place them strategically along the garland

For a more detailed tutorial on how to hang garland outside safely, check out the video below:

Securing Heavy or Pre-Lit Garlands

Additional Support Techniques

Using zip ties for extra security

I’ve found that heavy garlands need special care to stay put.

When using zip ties, I place them every 12 inches and thread them through the strong inner branches. I always use UV-resistant ties and make sure they’re black or green to blend in with the garland.

A second tie at each point acts as a backup.

Double-hook methods for heavier garlands

For extra-heavy garlands, I rely on a double-hook system. I place two hooks at each support point – one higher and one lower.

This splits the weight and prevents sagging. I space these hook pairs about 18 inches apart around my door frame or along railings.

Safety Considerations for Pre-Lit Garlands

When hanging pre-lit garlands, I always check the wiring first for any damage. I make sure to use only outdoor-rated extension cords and never connect more than three sections together.

I also keep plugs off the ground by securing them with plastic clips designed for light strands.

How I Prevent Outdoor Garland from Blowing Away?

After watching my garlands fly around like kites in past years, I’ve learned some reliable methods to keep them firmly in place.

The secret lies in the right combination of fasteners and proper placement.

1. Start with Strong Anchor Points: I make sure to secure my garland every 2-3 feet along its length. For wooden surfaces, I use:

• Small cup hooks screwed into the frame
• Clear command hooks rated for outdoor use
• Short wood screws with washers

2. Smart Fastening Techniques: I’ve found that using multiple types of fasteners works best. Here’s my tested method:

• Use green floral wire to create secure loops around the garland’s frame
• Add zip ties at key points – they’re stronger than you’d think
• Double-check all connection points by giving each section a gentle tug

3. Hidden Support Tricks: I like to keep my garland looking natural while staying secure. My go-to techniques:

• Place clear fishing line between attachment points
• Use small green plant ties that blend with the garland
• Add extra support points behind decorative bows

4. Quick Safety Check: I always test my handiwork by:

• Gently pulling on each section
• Checking all fasteners after the first windy day
• Looking for any spots that need extra support

Remember to check weather forecasts during the season. If there’s a big storm coming, I add extra zip ties at key points just to be safe.

Wrapping It Up

Hanging outdoor garlands is simpler than most people think. I’ve shared my tried-and-tested methods that have kept my decorations secure through many winter seasons.

Remember, success lies in choosing the right materials, measuring carefully, and using proper support techniques.

The most important things to keep in mind are:

• Always use outdoor-rated materials
• Plan your layout before starting
• Create multiple secure attachment points
• Check weather forecasts and add extra support when needed

Ready to start decorating? Begin with one doorway to practice these techniques.

If you run into any questions while hanging your garland, drop a comment below. I’d love to help you create beautiful, secure outdoor decorations that last all season long.