How to Make a Cranberry Garland
A simple DIY cranberry garland is a classic Christmas decoration that’s affordable, nostalgic, and beautiful! Here’s a rundown of how to make one!
I love to make some homemade decorations this time of year. But, I’m shocked to say that until this year, I had never made a homemade cranberry garland! I’ve always admired them and thought they were so pretty, but I’ve never taken the time to actually make one – until now. They’re a classic Christmas decoration (I did some googling and it seems like people began making them way back in the 1840’s!) and they add so much whimsy and charm to any space.
Maybe it’s the new house. Maybe it’s the fact that it seems like everyone is making simple DIY garlands this year. Or maybe I’m just getting craftier in my old age. But, I was really itching for a cranberry garland this year so I put on a good show (The Beast in Me – not very Christmas-y, but so captivating) and made it happen.
It was so easy, and it turned out just as cute as I imagined in. So, in case you’ve also never made one, here’s a peek at how I did it.
Supplies Needed for a Cranberry Garland
How to Make a Cranberry Garland
Making a cranberry garland is so simple it’s almost silly. Cut a piece of string or twine at the length you want your garland to be, then tie a knot in one end. Thread your needle and push it through your cranberries one by one to string them up! This is a great project to do with your kids – perfect to practice those fine motor skills if you have little ones!
You can use faux cranberries if you want something that will last the whole season, but I used fresh. They won’t last forever (soft cranberries don’t hold up great on the string!), but it felt more festive to string up the real thing.
If you want your cranberry garland to last longer, spray some shellac or sealer on the garland. This will help the berries stay in good shape longer and will ensure your garland makes it all the way through the holidays!
How Long Will a Fresh Cranberry Garland Last?
Generally speaking, you can expect your cranberry garland to last a few weeks. The cranberries will start to dry out after a little while, but they should hang in there for anywhere from 2-4 weeks! If you’re displaying your garland outside, it might last a little longer thanks to the cold (though, the birds will definitely eat it!). If you plan to put it outside, make sure to not seal it so you don’t accidentally poison any critters.
Of course, you could always grab some wood beads that look like cranberries to make a garland that will last for years!
Tips for Displaying
Personally, I think this type of garland looks best when it’s layered with others! I made two strings with just cranberries, then I added some dried oranges to the last one for a layered look. Learn how to make an orange slice garland here!
If you want to add some other details to your cranberry garland, here are a few ideas of things you could string up with them:
- Popcorn
- Cinnamon sticks
- Wood beads
- Small pinecones
Get creative with it and have fun! You could also layer in a paper chain garland for even more texture.
I simply taped my garland up under my kitchen bar, but they of course look gorgeous draped on Christmas trees too. You could also layer them on top of your favorite green garland.
It’s a really simple and easy (and cheap!) DIY Christmas decoration, but it’s one that makes a big impact!