A DIY Holiday Garland That Looks Way More Expensive Than It Is

Nothing quite says it's the holidays like a classic string of garland, sprouting with seasonal greenery, red pops of color, frosty juniper berries and pine cones. Of course, something that lush and robust can also be a pretty expensive purchase -- unless you have the inside track to creating one yourself. Clover Chadwick of Dandelion Ranch floral design studio in Los Angeles says it's actually quite easy to make your own lush holiday garland, as long as you have a few key items from the florist and some basic DIY instructions.

 

Supplies

Garland (real or fake)

Evergreen tree branches (like noble fir, Douglas fir, princess pine)

Cedar branches (standard or incense cedar)

Lemon leaf

Berry branches (like coffee bean berries, juniper berries

Round fruits (like pomegranates and red Anjou pears)

Pine cones

 

Instructions

Step 1: Lay your garland where you plan to display it. Then, begin laying your bulkiest evergreen branches -- such as the noble fir -- below the garland to create your basic shape.

Step 2: Continue to add evergreen branches, using the bulkier ones first and arranging some smaller pieces on the top of the garland.

Tip: Always work in the same direction as your garland, to keep it looking natural.

Step 3: Next, add the cedar, which has a silky, feathery texture. (Incense cedar has little yellow blooms and a fragrance, Clover points out.) Use these to help balance out your shape.

Step 4: Add your final greens for variety and texture, like the wispy-looking princess pine and the oblong lemon leaf.

Tip: Do not layer branches over each other. Go in between by tucking them into the garland.

Step 5: Then, add your berries. Coffee bean berry branches can be added every 16 inches, with blue-tinged juniper berries interspersed throughout.

Step 6: For the final step, add your fruit and pine cones as garnish, making the garland look three-dimensional and feel more balanced.

More holiday decorating tips from Oprah.com:

Make your own mason jar snow globe

How to make the perfect bow to add to your gifts

Create a gorgeous flower-free centerpiece

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