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 and 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. This 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 because 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 is that 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.