Last Updated on November 14, 2022 by ellen
Hanging wreaths on windows requires a special technique and a few extra minutes. Learn more about the right way to hang outdoor Christmas wreaths.
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Hanging Wreaths on Windows
While we often hang wreaths on our front door, decorating the front windows gives your home a festive flare during the holiday season. Outdoor wreaths can last the entire season when cared for properly.
It’s almost time to hang Christmas decorations, and hanging Christmas wreaths is always part of my decorating plan. I hang them earlier than I put the Christmas tree up so I can enjoy them throughout the holiday season.
If you need to hang wreaths on upstairs windows, you will either need double-hung windows that can be opened from the inside or a very tall ladder.
Keep reading for some tips for hanging wreaths on windows. But don’t forget to add one to the front door to welcome your guests.
What types of wreaths should I hang outside?
The most popular outdoor Christmas wreaths are made of evergreens, but you can also find wreaths made of:
-Fruit
-Flowers
-Greenery
-Dried materials
Be sure that the decorations on your wreath are suitable for outdoor use. Otherwise, they will be ruined in the wind and snow.
Exterior wreaths are meant to be exposed to the elements and can be used on outside windows.
How to tie a ribbon on a wreath?
-Take a long piece of ribbon and make a loop.
-Thread the ribbon through the back of the wreath.
-Bring the ribbon to the front of the wreath and tie it in a bow.
-Cut off any excess ribbon.
Here are a few things you will want to have on hand when it’s time to hang wreaths from exterior windows. You can probably find most of them at the dollar store, or check out Amazon.
- Fishing line
- Floral wire
- Picture hanging wire
- Command hooks
- Wide ribbon (outdoor ribbon works best)
- Wreath hanger
- Screw hooks
- Magnetic hook
What is the best way to hang outdoor Christmas wreaths?
There is no best way to hang outdoor Christmas wreaths. It will depend on the type of exterior windows you have. When you hang wreaths, the method will differ depending on whether you have double sash windows, a single pane window, or wood windows.
Tips for hanging wreaths outside on windows:
Here are the most popular ways to hang wreaths on exterior windows during the holiday season.
1. If you have double-hung windows, open the top and bottom sashes about halfway. Rest the wreath on the bottom sill and push it up until the hook is resting on the upper sill.
2. If your window has a transom (a small window above the main window), open it too. This will help support the wreath and keep it from falling.
3. Using a suction cup hook, ensure the window is clean. Any dust or dirt will prevent the suction cup from working correctly.
4. If you’re using a command hook, follow the package directions for the best results.
5. Hang the wreath so that the hook is facing out. This will make it easier to remove the wreath when it’s time to take it down.
6. When you’re done, close the windows and enjoy your Christmas decoration!
How to hang Christmas wreaths on exterior windows
To avoid damage, use one of these methods for hanging Christmas wreaths to the outside of your windows:
1 – Suction cup hook – You can buy special suction cups that attach outdoor wreaths to glass. I like the clear suction cups because they’re practically invisible. These are the best ones.
2 – Looped ribbon – Another way to attach a wreath to a window is by using a wide Christmas ribbon. Choose an outdoor ribbon so it is weatherproof. This method is also good for attaching garland around the perimeter of a window. Find some here.
3 – Wreath hangers – Wreath hangers also fit over the top of the window. These metal or plastic hangers have a hook on one end that goes over the top of the window and another hook on the other for attaching the wreath.
4 – Adhesive hooks – You can also use adhesive hooks to attach wreaths to outside windows. This is a good option if you’re renting and can’t put holes in the window.
5 – Heavy duty fishing line – If you’re worried about damaging your window, you can use a clear fishing line to attach the wreath. I like this method because it is nearly invisible. Just be sure to use a fishing line that can hold the wreath’s weight.
How do you hang wreaths on windows with suction cups?
The first step is to clean the window with rubbing alcohol. Then, allow it to dry. This will ensure the surface is clean and the suction cup will stick properly.
To use suction cups to hang wreaths on windows, start by attaching the suction cups to the window. Then, thread a piece of wired ribbon or fishing line through the loop on the suction cup. Make sure the ribbon is long enough to tie around the wreath.
Tie the ribbon or fishing line around the wreath, and then pull it tight so it is secure.
How to hang wreaths on a window frame
If you want to get creative, you can hang wreaths on the window frame. Just be careful of the window glass if you choose this method. Never try this with glass windows.
1 – Nails or screws – You can use nails or a screw hook to attach the wreath directly to the exterior window frame.
2 – Picture hanging or floral wire- Another option is to use picture hanging or floral wire. Just wrap the wire around the back of the wreath and twist it tight. Then, loop the ends of the wire over a nail or screw in the window frame.
3 – Fishing line – Tie the fishing line around the window lock to hold it securely. This works equally well on an upstairs window. It’s barely visible this way, especially with a big red bow at the top.
How to keep window wreaths from blowing
If you live in a windy area, you may be worried about your wreaths blowing away. The good news is, there are a few things you can do to keep them in place.
1 – Use heavier wreaths – If you’re using artificial wreaths, choose ones made with heavier materials. This will help your hanging wreaths withstand the wind.
2 – Use more than one suction cup hook- If you’re using suction cups to attach your outdoor wreaths, use more than one. This will distribute the weight and make it less likely for the wreath to blow away.
3 – Use command hooks – Command strips are another option for attaching Christmas wreaths to windows. They create a strong bond and will help keep the wreath in place. Get them here.
4 – Use weights – You can also use weights to keep your wreaths from blowing away. Just tie a weight (like a fishing sinker) to the bottom of the wreath with a looped ribbon.
5 – Hang them indoors – If you’re worried about your wreaths blowing away, you can always hang them indoors or on the front door. Just be sure to use the proper hooks so they don’t damage your walls.
How to hang Christmas wreaths on wood windows
Here are some tips for hanging Christmas wreaths on wooden windows.
1 – Nails or screws – Like exterior window frames, you can use nails or screws to attach the wreath directly to the window trim. Be sure to use a small nail or screw so it doesn’t damage the window.
2 – Magnetic hooks – These wreath hangers have a strong magnet that attaches to the metal window frame. They come in different sizes, so be sure to get one that is big enough for your window wreaths. Get them here.
3 – Ribbon method – You can also use the ribbon method for attaching wreaths to wood windows. Just be sure to use a strong ribbon that won’t tear. I like wired ribbon because it adds a bit of strength. Choose a solid red velvet ribbon or pretty ribbon with a pattern. You can even add matching red bows.
How to hang a wreath on a double hung window
Here are a few methods you can use for a double hung window. Be careful not to damage the windows screens.
1 – Wreath hangers – You can buy a wreath hanger that is designed explicitly for double-hung windows. They have two loops on each end that fit over the top of the window.
2 – S-hooks – Another option is to use S-hooks. Just loop the hook around the top of the window and then hang the wreath from the hook.
3 – Command hooks – You can also use command hooks to attach wreaths to double-hung windows. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.
4 – Ribbon method – The ribbon method works well for double-hung windows. Just be sure to use a strong ribbon that won’t tear. You may find a wide ribbon works best.
How to hang wreaths on vinyl windows
The easiest method for vinyl windows is to tie a wide velvet ribbon to a wooden dowel. Slip the dowel inside the window. Then, loop the wide ribbon over the top of the window and tie it in a bow. The dowel will help keep the wreath in place and prevent it from blowing away.
Where should wreaths be placed on windows?
It’s up to you where you place your wreaths on the windows. You can center them in the window or offset them to one side. You can also hang multiple wreaths in a single window. Just be sure to space them so they look symmetrical.
Less is usually more when deciding how many wreaths to hang in a window. If you go too overboard, it can look cluttered and busy. A good rule of thumb is to stick to one wreath per window. You can always add more if you want, but it’s easier to take away than to add.
Finally, don’t forget about the inside of your windows! You can hang wreaths on the inside of your windows as well. Just be sure to use a lightweight wreath so it doesn’t damage the window.
Once the holiday is over, the best way to store all those wreaths is in a wreath storage box. Be sure to repair any loose decorations with hot glue before you pack them away.
Merry Christmas! I hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
Ellen is a mom of a 25-year-old son and 30-year-old daughter. She is Grandma to one adorable toddler. In what little spare time she has, she loves to read, watch movies, and check out the latest toys and games.