Creating a Whimsical Christmas Garland Arch ✨

There’s something so special about walking through a doorway that feels like a touch of Christmas magic. This year, I wanted to create a garland arch that felt whimsical and old-world — something that looked like it came straight out of a holiday storybook. Here’s how I put it all together, step by step, so you can make one of your own.

Step 1: Prep Your Space

Before I started hanging anything, I gave the archway a quick wipe-down to make sure there were no dust or cobwebs hiding in the corners. It’s a simple step, but it makes a big difference when you’re working with adhesive hooks.

Step 2: Hang Your Command Hooks

I used these clear Command hook clips all around the arch to hold the garland securely. I applied them evenly, following the curve of the doorway, and let them sit overnight before adding any weight — that little bit of patience helps them hold much better once the garland goes up.

Step 3: Add Your Base Garland

For the base, I used two of these Cedar Garland from Hobby Lobby to create the fullness and length I wanted. I overlapped and fluffed them together until they felt lush and natural, gently shaping them to follow the arch. Don’t worry if some branches look uneven at this stage — we’ll fill those in later.

Step 4: Layer with Texture and Depth

Once the base was secure, I started adding garland picks and stems for texture and richness:

• Faux pinecone garland to add a natural woodland touch
  
• Frosted pinecone and berry picks for a snowy, festive look
  
• Frosted berry sprays to give it a touch of red and sparkle (I attached an item similar to mine)
  

If a pick needs a little extra securing or manipulation I will typically use floral wire to attach it to my garland. I also like to tuck the picks in at slightly different angles rather than making things perfectly symmetrical. A little bit of disorganized charm helps the overall look feel more natural — almost as if it’s growing right out of the wall.

Step 5: Add Whimsy and Movement

Next, I added my favorite touch — the star garland. Mine was a Hobby Lobby find from last year, but this similar star spray gives the same celestial feel. It instantly adds that whimsical sparkle I love.

To make the arch feel more dimensional, I layered in some hanging florals that drape gently toward the center of the walkway. I even removed some of the leaves to keep the look cohesive and airy.

Step 6: The Finishing Details

To tie everything together, I added a few gold bell picks on the left side of the arch for a hint of vintage charm. Then I wove in two strands of delicate crystal fairy lights from Hobby Lobby’s wedding section (a little trick — the wedding aisle has the prettiest twinkle lights!).

The Final Look ✨

And there you have it — a lush, dimensional garland arch that feels equal parts magical and homey.

It’s the perfect way to frame a cozy room for the holidays and I hope this inspires you to make one of your own this season. Tag me @houseofbabyblue on Tiktok or Instagram so I can see your wonderful creations.