Handmade Christmas Garlands
This Post May Contain Affiliate Links. Please Read Our Disclosure PolicyAdd warmth and character to your holiday décor with these handmade Christmas garland ideas. From popcorn strands and paper chains to gingerbread and wood beads, these festive DIY projects are simple to make, full of charm, and perfect for trimming the tree, dressing the mantel, or wrapping a staircase with holiday spirit.

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when you sit down to make a Christmas garland. Bit by bit, strand by strand, you’re not just creating a decoration; you’re weaving together moments of nostalgia, festive cheer, and creativity. Something is grounding about working with your hands, stringing popcorn or paper, and watching a beautiful item take shape right before your eyes. It’s a quiet reminder that joy doesn’t always come from what we buy, but from what we make.
Handmade garlands bring life to a space in a way nothing store-bought can. They tell a story and somehow make every room feel warmer and more personal. Whether you’re crafting with family and listening to your favorite Christmas tunes, catching up with friends over the best cocoa, or simply enjoying an afternoon of creating on your own, these projects invite you to slow down and soak in the season. Each garland becomes a little thread of Christmas spirit, ready to wrap your home in love and festive cheer.
Why You’ll Love These Handmade Garlands
- They add warmth and character. Handmade garlands have a charm that mass-produced décor just can’t match. Whether hung across a mantel, wrapped around a banister, or draped on the tree, they instantly make your space feel cozy and festive.
- They’re easy to customize. From color palettes to materials, every garland can reflect your personal style. Keep things natural with wood beads and paper, or go bold with glitter, ribbon, and pops of color.
- They’re perfect for holiday gatherings. These garlands are a lovely way to spend creative time with family or friends. Make an afternoon of it, turn on some Christmas music, and craft decorations that will bring joy for years to come.
And with that, let’s dive into this collection of handmade Christmas garlands. I’ll keep adding new ideas as the seasons go by, so be sure to bookmark this and check back next year for even more festive inspiration and creative projects to try.

Popcorn Garland
Bring a bit of old-fashioned Christmas magic to your home with this classic Popcorn Garland. It’s simple, inexpensive, and adds a cozy, nostalgic touch to your tree or holiday decor.

Gingerbread House Garland
Make your holiday décor extra sweet with this DIY Gingerbread House Garland. Tiny handmade houses strung together create a whimsical and festive decoration that’s perfect for bakers and crafters alike.

Vintage Bobbin Christmas Garland
Turn vintage wooden spools, beads, and twine into a charming Vintage Bobbin Garland. This unique handmade decoration brings nostalgic character and warmth to your mantel, tree, or doorway.

Gingerbread Cookie Garland
String together freshly baked gingerbread cookies to create a warm and festive garland. This Gingerbread Cookie Garland a fun holiday project that fills your home with the scent and spirit of Christmas.
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Paper Star Garland
Add sparkle and simplicity to your holiday décor with this easy Paper Star Garland. Made with just a few supplies, it’s a budget-friendly way to bring handmade charm to your home.

Wood Bead Christmas Garland
Create a natural, cozy look with this DIY Wood Bead Garland. Mix shapes, sizes, and colors to match your décor and add a warm, handcrafted touch to your holiday style.

Paper Chain Christmas Garland
Give a nostalgic craft a modern twist with this Paper Chain Christmas Garland made from wallpaper or colorful paper. It’s an easy and beautiful way to decorate your tree, mantel, or table with handmade flair.

Paper Plate Doves Garland
These Paper Plate Doves make a meaningful and creative garland for the season. Using painted or patterned paper, you’ll craft a strand that feels both festive and heartfelt.

Staircase Christmas Garland
While not a DIY project, my Staircase Christmas Garland has become one of the most asked-about decorations in my home. In this post, I share step-by-step tips for recreating the look so you can deck your own stairs in true holiday style.
More Christmas Projects You’ll Love
- Bottle Brush Tree Drink Stirrers
- DIY Christmas Cookie Bags
- Gingerbread Cookie Napkin Rings
- Vintage Ornament Christmas Wreath
- Homemade Cranberry Cordial
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I made the bottle brush stirrers as well as the vintage thread spools garland. I am tickled with both. Ready for the decorating to begin! Thanks for detailed directions, sources, and close up photos. Those make copying your projects so much easier.
Yay! Love that!
xo Michael