This holiday season, take your staircase to the next level with a lush, dramatic garland made using a surprising secret weapon — a pool noodle! This affordable DIY pool noodle garland is easy, fun and completely customizable. Here’s how to create your own showstopping masterpiece for the holidays:
@hgtvcanada Using a pool noodle for your garland is the ultimate festive decor hack 😍 @Courtney Naray #DIY #garland #christmas #holidaydecor #hack
Materials Required:
- 1 pool noodle
- Zip ties
- Fir branches (grab free off-cuts from your Christmas tree)
- Cedar stems
- Pruning shears
- Gold beaded garland
- Glass gold star ornaments
- Battery-operated twinkle lights
- 2” satin ribbon (for bows)
- Scissors
Step 1: Attach Your Pool Noodle
First, slice the pool noodle lengthwise. Position it snugly along the top of your banister, with the cut side facing down. Secure it in place using zip ties, spacing them about 12 inches apart. This base will anchor all of the festive greenery and decorations.
Step 2: Gather and Trim Your Greenery
If you get a real Christmas tree for your house, ask for the off-cuts from the bottom — they’re usually free and perfect for this project! Pair them with some cedar stems for added texture and draping. Otherwise, you can pick up fresh greenery from most grocery stores this time of year.
Using pruning shears, trim the branches into smaller sections, roughly 8-12 inches long. You want pieces that are easy to handle but full enough to create a fluffy look.
Step 3: Build Your Pool Noodle Garland
Start at one end of the banister and insert the cut ends of the fir branches into the slit of the pool noodle. Work in sections, alternating with cedar stems to create dimension. Layer generously until the entire pool noodle is covered.
Pro tip: Stand back occasionally to check your progress, finding bald spots to ensure an even, full look.
Step 4: Add the Gold Beaded Garland
Take your gold beaded garland and drape it loosely around the greenery. Let it swoop and sag between sections for a touch of sparkle and movement. Secure the garland in place by tucking it into the greenery or using small zip ties if needed.
Step 5: Customize Your Pool Noodle Garland
Next, tuck in a few pretty ornaments. Use more stems to help hold them in place, ensuring they’re secure and visible.
Then, weave a string of battery-operated twinkle lights through the garland. Position the lights to highlight the ornaments and greenery, leaving the battery pack discreetly tucked at the base.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
For the grand finale, create two large satin bows — one for the top of the banister and one for the bottom. I did a double bow at the bottom for even more drama. Secure the bows with zip ties and adjust the ribbon tails so they cascade elegantly downwards.
Step 7: Admire Your Work
With the final touches in place, it’s time to snap a few pictures for the ‘gram and enjoy your beautifully-decorated space. The mix of lush greenery, shimmering gold accents and twinkling lights brings instant holiday magic to your home.
