Are you looking for a way to add some extra holiday cheer to your home this season? If so, consider attaching a Christmas garland to your stair railing! A garland is one of the most popular holiday decorations and it’s a quick and easy way to create a festive look and atmosphere. In this guide, we will give you several different ideas for attaching your garland without damaging your railing. Choose the method that works best for you and get started on creating a beautifully decorated holiday staircase!
From garland and lights to ribbons and wreaths, there are endless possibilities when it comes to decking your staircase in holiday cheer. But before you get started, it’s important to understand the basics of how to attach the garland to a staircase railing. With just a little bit of know-how, you can transform your stairs into a festive focal point that will impress your guests and get you into the holiday spirit. So read on for our ultimate guide on how to attach a faux or fresh garland to a staircase railing.
How Much Garland Do You Need For Your Staircase?
First, you need to decide how much garland you will need. You don’t want to overload your railing with too much garland, but you also want to make sure that your staircase looks festive and inviting. Of course, you’ll be hanging the garland without stretching it, so add an extra 50% for the actual length of your staircase. Even if you choose an extra-long garland, it’s easier to trim it down to size than to try and stretch it out. More garland is better than not enough…
What To Use To Hang Garland On Stairs
We’ve selected tools that won’t damage your banister and most methods can be reused year after year. If you’re not using a decorative method, make sure you fluff your garland up to hide the item that is securing the garland.
Burlap
If you’re using a rustic style garland, burlap strips are an easy and inexpensive way to attach your old-fashioned garland to your staircase banister. All you need is a length of burlap, some scissors, and a little bit of time.

Double-Sided Tape
Heavy-duty double-sided tape is an easy solution for how to install your garland on the stairs. Ensure your tape is removable so your banister can return to its natural state after the holiday season.
Floral Wire
This is an excellent damage-free way to attach your garland to your staircase. All you need is some green floral wire and a few minutes, and you’re all set! Simply wrap the wire around the garland and then secure it to the railing with a twist. The great thing about this method is that it’s completely reversible, so you can take it down after the holidays without damaging your railing.
Large Bows
Got some ribbon? You can also attach your garland using big bows! This is a great way to add a touch of holiday style to your staircase. Simply tie the ribbon around the garland and then secure it to the railing with a bow. You can use any type of ribbon, from grosgrain to velvet, so get creative and have fun with it. You can use a simple bow, or you can attach Christmas ornaments, pine cones, or berries.
Pipe Cleaners
If you’re like me, your staircase banister is probably looking a little bare this holiday season. But don’t despair! Pipe cleaners to the rescue! These little bendy items are useful in so many situations, and hanging a garland is no exception! No damage and reusable!
String
Now here is a basic but effective way to attach your garland to your railing. String! Green string is even better. If you do it carefully, you can leave it attached to the garland for next year.
Twist Ties
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to attach a garland to your staircase banister, look no further than twist ties! These little guys are strong enough to keep your garland in place, but they’re also easy to remove when you’re ready to take it down. We like the twist ties in a reel rather than fixed-length ties because you only use what you need.
Zip Ties
A zip tie is a great way to attach each section of garland to your stairs. You might have some in the kitchen drawer, or you can find them at any hardware store. It’s easy to use and also hide zip ties. Green zip ties hidden in the faux greenery will securely hold your garland without being seen by your guests.
Garland Ties
A Christmas garland hanging from your stair rail is the ultimate way to decorate your staircase, but what is the best way to hang it around the banister? With purpose-built garland ties!
Green Garland Ties
White Garland Ties
Gold Garland Ties
Silver Garland Ties
Velcro Garland Christmas Ties
Pine Garland Ties
Clear Garland Ties
Outdoor Garland Ties
Decorative Garland Ties
How To Attach A Garland To The Staircase Railing
You’ll need:
- Garland
- Green floral wire
- Wire clippers
- Decorations – Bows, ornaments, flowers, stockings, and other decorations that represent your family
If your garland is pre-lit with Christmas lights, locate your electrical plug and make sure that the appropriate end of the garland is near your electrical socket.
- Start at the top of the garland.
- At each end, wrap the floral wire around the garland and then around the banister.
- To create a swag effect, pull a section of garland up to the banister and attach it with floral wire.
- Ensure that the wire is hidden in the garland foliage.
- Place bows or other embellishments with floral wire.
- Attach ornaments with hooks to the garland branches.
- Check how the garland looks from ground level, or from where your guests will first see your staircase, which is usually the front door.
- Adjust as necessary.
- Step back and take a photo!
Conclusion
It’s time to get creative! There are endless possibilities when it comes to decorating your stairs for the holidays. So have fun and enjoy creating a festive space that will grab your guests’ attention as soon as they walk through the front door.