How to Decorate With Holly
Are you looking to add some festive flair to your home this holiday season? Look no further than Holly! This traditional evergreen plant is not only a symbol of Christmas, but it also adds a pop of color and texture to any room.
Decorating with holly brings a touch of vibrant greenery and festive cheer into your home during the holiday season. This time-honored tradition, steeped in history and symbolism, not only beautifies spaces but also invites the essence of nature indoors. Holly offers versatility and a classic holiday appeal, whether you’re adorning a mantle, creating a centerpiece, or accentuating your holiday table.
In this guide, we will explore creative and elegant ways to incorporate holly into your holiday decorations, providing step-by-step instructions and tips on how to decorate with holly. From simple placements to intricate designs, learn how to bring the festive charm of holly into your holiday decor.
What Will You Need?
Before diving into the creative ways to decorate with holly, gathering all the necessary materials is essential. Here are some items you will need for most of these ideas:
- Fresh or artificial holly branches
- Pruning shears or scissors
- Wire cutters
- Floral foam or vase filler (if using fresh holly)
- Ribbon or twine (optional)
- Candles (optional)
Now that you have all the materials let’s dive into some fun and festive ways to decorate with holly!
10 Easy Steps on How to Decorate With Holly
Step 1. Create a Holly Wreath
A holly wreath is a classic and elegant way to welcome guests into your home during the holidays. To make your own, follow these simple steps:
- Gather a circular wire wreath frame, fresh or artificial holly branches, and floral wire.
- Cut the holly branches into smaller pieces, leaving some with longer stems.
- Insert the holly stems into the frame, securing them in place with floral wire.
- Continue adding holly until the entire frame is covered.
- Cut a ribbon or twine and tie it at the top of the wreath for hanging.
Step 2: Create a Holly Garland
To create a holly garland, begin by measuring the length of the area where you wish to display your garland, such as a fireplace mantel or staircase railing. This measurement will guide you in determining the amount of holly branches needed. Using fresh or artificial holly, intertwine the branches, occasionally securing them with floral wire to maintain stability and shape.
Weave in some ribbon or string lights for a touch of elegance, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the garland. Once your garland is complete, drape it along your chosen area, adjusting the branches to achieve a full and lush appearance. This festive garland not only showcases the beauty of holly but also brings a cozy holiday atmosphere to any space.
Step 3: Holly Centerpieces for Your Table
Creating a holly centerpiece is an excellent way to bring the essence of the holiday season to your dining or coffee table. Start by selecting a base for your centerpiece, such as a decorative tray or shallow bowl. Arrange a mix of fresh or artificial holly branches, incorporating various lengths for depth and volume.
To add an extra festive touch, intersperse small candles or a string of fairy lights among the holly, ensuring that any candles used are securely placed to prevent any fire hazards. Scatter a few pine cones or shiny ornaments around the base for a final decorative flair. This beautiful holly centerpiece will serve as a festive focal point in your holiday decor, illuminating the room with its natural beauty and seasonal charm.
Step 4: Holly Accents for Your Place Settings
Adding holly accents to your holiday table settings can really elevate the festive atmosphere during meal times. To do this, start by selecting small branches or individual holly leaves that are relatively uniform in size. For each place setting, place a sprig of holly on the napkin or directly on the plate. You can tie the napkin with a piece of twine or a festive ribbon and then slip the holly beneath the knot for a charming touch.
Alternatively, crafting a small arrangement on top of each napkin using holly leaves, berries, and a small pinecone or cinnamon stick can create a delightful and fragrant decoration. This simple yet elegant touch not only brings the beauty of holly to your table but also provides a personal festive touch for each guest.
Step 5: Embellish Your Gift Wrapping with Holly
Incorporating holly into your gift wrapping is a creative way to add a personal touch to your holiday presents. Start by wrapping your gifts in plain or festively patterned paper. Then, take a small sprig of holly, fresh or artificial, and secure it on top of the gift, either by tying it with a ribbon around it or attaching it directly onto the wrapping paper with clear tape.
For an even more distinctive look, you could also use twine or burlap ribbon for a rustic aesthetic. This added holly detail will not only make your gifts stand out under the Christmas tree but also show the thought and care you put into each present.
Step 6: Decorate Your Windows with Holly
Adorning your windows with holly is a splendid way to spread holiday cheer inside and outside your home. Start by measuring your window to determine how much holly you will need. Then, create small bunches of holly branches, securing them together with floral wire. If desired, incorporate ribbon bows or small ornaments into each bunch for an additional festive touch.
Attach suction cup hooks or use a safe adhesive on the window glass to hang your holly bunches evenly across the window. This decoration not only enhances the holiday ambiance within your home but also offers a cheerful view for anyone passing by.
Step 7: Use Holly as Mantle Decor
Decorating your mantle with holly adds a traditional and heartfelt touch to your holiday decor. To start, ensure your fireplace mantle is clean and clear of any non-holiday items. Arrange a strand of fresh or artificial holly along the length of the mantle, allowing some branches to drape slightly over the edge for a natural, lush look.
Intersperse the holly with tall candlesticks or small holiday-themed figurines for a layered appearance. For added sparkle, weave a string of fairy lights through the holly. This creates a warm, inviting ambiance, highlighting the mantle as a focal point in your holiday decorations.
Step 8: Crafting Holly Holiday Cards
Sending personalized holiday cards is a wonderful way to share the festive spirit with friends and family. For a unique touch, incorporate holly into your card designs. Begin with blank cards or make your own from cardstock. Use a fine-tip pen to draw holly leaves and berries on the front of each card, or glue on small cut-outs of holly from craft paper for a 3D effect.
You can also add glitter or use metallic pens to outline the holly for a bit of sparkle. Inside, write a heartfelt message expressing your holiday wishes. These handmade holly-themed cards will surely stand out, offering a personal and creative expression of your holiday greetings.
Step 9: Holly-themed Holiday Party Favors
Creating holly-themed party favors is a delightful way to thank guests for sharing in your holiday celebrations. Begin by choosing small items that can easily be adorned with holly, such as candle holders, miniature jars of homemade jam, or handcrafted soaps. Wrap each favor with a festive ribbon and attach a small sprig of holly to it, ensuring the leaves and berries are visible.
You can also include a tag with a personalized holiday message or the date of your party. Place these holly-themed favors at each guest’s seat or arrange them in a basket by the door so guests can pick one up as they leave. This thoughtful gesture adds a personal touch to your holiday event and leaves your guests with a memorable keepsake of the occasion.
Step 10: Holly Wreath for Your Front Door
Creating a holly wreath for your front door is a festive way to welcome guests into your home during the holiday season. Begin by purchasing or gathering a base wreath form made of wire or vine. Attach bunches of fresh or artificial holly to the form using floral wire, covering the entire circle and ensuring that the holly branches are securely fastened.
Add a few pine cones, cinnamon sticks, or a bow made of wide, festive ribbon at the top or bottom of the wreath for a more decorative touch. This beautiful holly wreath will not only add a touch of traditional holiday charm to your front door but also spread festive cheer to all who pass by.
By following these ten steps, you can easily incorporate holly into your holiday decor and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all who celebrate with you.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Create Natural Table Centerpieces: Use holly branches to craft eye-catching centerpieces for your dining table. Combine them with candles, pine cones, and ribbons in seasonal colors for a festive look.
- Adorn Your Staircase: Wrap holly garlands around the handrails of your staircase, intertwining them with string lights for added sparkle. This not only brings seasonal cheer but also creates a warm welcome for guests.
- Enhance Your Fireplace Mantel: Drape holly garlands across your fireplace mantel. Intersperse with small ornaments or fairy lights for a subtle yet stunning effect. Remember to keep the holly away from open flames for safety.
- Personalize Place Settings: For a special touch at holiday meals, place a small sprig of holly on each napkin. This simple gesture adds charm to your table setting while tying in the theme of your decor.
- Window Dressings: Embellish your windows by hanging small bouquets of holly from the curtain rods or sticking them to the window frame. This not only looks beautiful from the inside but also enhances your home’s exterior holiday appeal.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can elevate your holiday decor and make it stand out with the use of holly.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Placing Holly in High-Traffic Areas: Avoid placing holly decorations where people might frequently pass or sit, such as seating areas or narrow hallways. Holly leaves are sharp and can cause discomfort or injury.
- Overlooking Pet Safety: Holly berries, while attractive, are toxic to pets. To prevent accidental ingestion, keep holly decorations out of reach of pets.
- Ignoring Allergy Concerns: Some people are allergic to holly. When decorating, be mindful of guests with allergies to ensure everyone’s comfort during the holiday season.
- Using Too Much in Small Spaces: While Holly is beautiful, using it excessively in confined spaces can make an area feel cluttered. Use it sparingly to accentuate rather than overwhelm your decor.
- Forgetting to Refresh Cut Holly: If you’re using fresh holly branches, they will dry out over time. Avoid the appearance of wilted or dried decorations by regularly refreshing them or opting for high-quality artificial alternatives.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your holiday decor with Holly is not only beautiful but also safe and comfortable for everyone.
5 Different Theme Ideas to Incorporate Holly
- Traditional Red and Green: These are classic holiday colors that never go out of style. Use holly as the predominant green element in your decor, paired with red accents throughout.
- Rustic Charm: Combine holly with natural elements like pinecones, burlap, and wood for a cozy and rustic feel.
- Glamorous Gold and Silver: Incorporate holly with metallic gold or silver accents to add a touch of elegance to your holiday decor.
- Festive Farmhouse: For a charming and cozy farmhouse look, use holly, plaid fabrics, vintage details, and string lights.
- Coastal Christmas: Incorporate holly with seashells, starfish, and other coastal elements to create a unique twist on traditional holiday decor.
With these theme ideas, you can create a cohesive and personalized holiday look using holly as a key element.
Is Holly Poisonous to Humans?
Yes, holly is considered mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The berries contain compounds that can cause stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting if consumed in large quantities. However, the leaves are not poisonous and can be safely handled. It is always best to exercise caution when handling any plant or decoration for safety purposes.
Additionally, it is important to keep holly out of reach of young children who may be tempted to put the bright berries in their mouths. If you have concerns about holly in your home, consider opting for artificial holly decorations instead. Keep in mind that while artificial holly may not pose a risk of toxicity, it can still be a choking hazard for small children and pets if not properly secured.
In conclusion, holly can add a beautiful and festive touch to your holiday decor, but it’s important to handle it with care and consider the safety of others when using it.
Can You Decorate Food With Holly?
Yes, you can decorate food with holly! Holly leaves and berries are edible, but it’s important to note that they have a bitter taste. However, if you want to add a festive touch to your holiday dishes, consider using holly as a garnish or topping. Some ideas include:
- Use small sprigs of fresh holly to top desserts like cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
- Add holly leaves to a cheese platter for color and holiday flair.
- We incorporate dried holly berries into homemade trail mix or granola for a seasonal twist.
Be sure to thoroughly wash any holly you plan on using as a food decoration. Additionally, only use holly from non-toxic varieties and avoid using pesticides or other chemicals on the leaves and berries. Overall, decorating with holly is a versatile and festive way to add a touch of holiday spirit to your home.
Is Holly Good for Furniture?
While holly can make a beautiful addition to holiday decor, it’s important to be cautious when using it near furniture. Holly berries contain natural dyes that can stain fabrics and other surfaces if they come into contact with moisture. It’s best to avoid placing holly directly on or near furniture without a protective layer in between, such as a table runner or cloth.
Also, holly leaves can be sharp and scratch or damage delicate furniture finishes. Be mindful when decorating with holly near furniture, and consider using alternative decorative elements in those areas to avoid any potential damage. With proper care and consideration, you can incorporate holly into your holiday decor without harming your furniture.
By following these tips and incorporating your own style, you can create a beautiful and festive holiday atmosphere with holly as your main decorative element. Have fun experimenting with different ways to use holly and make your home feel warm and welcoming for the holiday season.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how to decorate with holly for the holiday season is a timeless tradition that brings a touch of nature and vibrant color to your home.
You can create a safe and inviting holiday atmosphere by understanding the beauty and challenges of using holly, from its festive appearance to its potential hazards. Remember to place the holly thoughtfully away from high-traffic areas, keep it out of reach from pets and children, and refresh the cut holly to maintain its vibrant appearance.
Whether you’re aiming for a traditional red and green theme, a rustic charm, glamorous touches, a festive farmhouse look, or even a coastal Christmas, Holly can be integrated into your decor to add that special holiday sparkle.
Care for and use holly wisely in your holiday decorations, and you’ll ensure a beautiful, joyful, and safe ambiance for celebrating the season.
Angela Ervin
Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.
