DIY garland

So you've crafted your beautiful DIY holiday garland with those lovely dried orange slices, colorful wooden beads, and pretty ribbon – now what's the best way to display it? I know when I first started making garlands, I'd just hang them up, but I've learned a few tricks to make them truly shine! One of my favorite spots, just like in my own home, is above a TV or on a prominent *white shelf*. The key here is proper draping. Instead of a straight line, try to create soft, natural-looking swags. I usually use small clear adhesive hooks or even tiny nails if I'm confident about the placement. For a mantelpiece, you can let it cascade down the sides a bit for an elegant touch. If your garland includes elements like the jute string or star cutouts from orange peels, make sure those delicate details are visible and not hidden. Another fantastic place is along a *staircase railing*. This instantly adds a festive feel to an entire entryway. I like to weave the garland through the balusters, creating a gentle flow. You can secure it at a few key points with floral wire or zip ties (hidden, of course!). Don't forget about doorways and windows! For a doorway, I often drape it across the top and down the sides, framing the entrance. For windows, laying it across the sill can be lovely, especially if you add some small LED fairy lights behind it. The light will really make those dried orange slices glow! To make your garland look even fuller and more luxurious, try layering! Sometimes I'll combine my handmade orange slice and bead garland with a simple evergreen garland from the craft store. This adds volume and a lovely contrast. You can also weave in extra elements like pinecones, small ornaments, or even cinnamon sticks for added fragrance and visual interest. I always make sure the red ribbon accents pop out. Beyond just the holidays, I've experimented with keeping my orange slice garland up for a bit longer. For a cozy winter vibe, it still looks great. To store it, I gently wrap it around a piece of cardboard or a paper towel roll to prevent tangling and to keep the elements in shape, especially those delicate orange slices. This way, your beautiful creation, made with love and those charming *wooden beads*, will be ready to bring cheer year after year!