Bolded Quick Summary

Decorating outdoor columns for Christmas is an easy way to add festive charm! This guide shows beginners how to liven up porch pillars with lights, garlands, and natural elements, focusing on simple, secure, and visually appealing methods to make your home sparkle all season long. Let’s get started creating a beautiful holiday entrance!

How To Decorate Outdoor Columns For Christmas: The Essential Beginner’s Guide

A grand entrance makes a wonderful first impression, especially during the holidays! But if you have outdoor columns or pillars gracing your porch or entryway, you might wonder how to make them part of your Christmas decorations. It can seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s actually quite simple and incredibly rewarding. We’ll walk through everything you need to know, from choosing your decorations to safely attaching them.

Don’t worry if you’re new to this; our step-by-step approach will have your columns looking festive in no time. We’ll cover easy ideas that don’t require special skills, helping you transform those everyday pillars into dazzling holiday statements. Let’s spread some cheer from the outside in!

Why Decorate Your Outdoor Columns?

Outdoor columns are often overlooked architectural features, but they present a fantastic opportunity to extend your Christmas spirit beyond just your front door or windows. Think of them as blank canvases ready for a touch of holiday magic! Decorating them can:

• Enhance Curb Appeal: They add an immediate festive flair and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests and passersby.
• Frame Your Entrance: Well-decorated columns can beautifully frame your front door, drawing attention to your main entry and making it feel more grand.
• Complete Your Holiday Theme: Columns can tie together your entire outdoor Christmas display, carrying your chosen theme and color scheme around your home’s exterior.
• Boost Holiday Spirit: Seeing beautifully decorated columns can bring joy not only to you but also to your neighbors and community.

Planning Your Column Decorations

Before you dive in, a little planning goes a long way. Think about the overall look you want to achieve and what will work best for your columns and your home’s style. Here are some key things to consider:

Consider Your Column Type

The material and shape of your columns will influence how you attach decorations and what kind of decorations will hold up best. Are your columns brick, stone, stucco, wood, or vinyl? Are they round, square, or fluted?

• Wood/Vinyl: Generally easier to attach things to. You can often use small screws, nails, or strong outdoor adhesives suitable for these surfaces.
• Brick/Stone: Requires more care. You might use special masonry fasteners, outdoor-rated adhesive hooks, or simply wrap decorations around them. Ensure any fasteners are removed carefully to avoid damage.
• Stucco: Similar to brick and stone, using adhesive hooks or wrapping is often the best approach to avoid leaving permanent marks.

Choose a Theme and Color Scheme

Having a theme and a consistent color scheme makes your decorations look professional and cohesive. Do you love a traditional red and green? Maybe you prefer a winter wonderland theme with whites and silvers? Or a more rustic look with natural greens and burlap?

Pro Tip: Sticking to 2-3 main colors will prevent your decorations from looking too busy. For example, classic red and gold, icy blue and silver, or deep green and warm white are elegant choices.

Assess Attachment Points

Think about how you’ll secure your decorations. You don’t want to damage your columns, so consider methods that are minimally invasive. We’ll go into more detail on this later, but start brainstorming now.

Measure Your Columns

Before buying anything, measure the height and circumference (if applicable) of your columns. This will help you determine how much garland, how many lights, or how large of a bow you’ll need. It’s always better to have a little extra than not enough!

Essential Supplies for Decorating Outdoor Columns

Gathering the right supplies beforehand makes the decorating process much smoother. Here’s a list of common items you might need:

• Lights: LED string lights (consider colors and styles like icicle, net, or fairy lights).
• Garland: Artificial or natural (e.g., faux pine, cedar, eucalyptus; or real evergreen branches).
• Ribbons/Bows: Wired ribbon is best for outdoor use as it holds its shape.
• Ornaments: Large, shatterproof ornaments can add a pop of color and sparkle.
• Natural Elements: Pinecones, faux berries, faux poinsettias, or artificial branches.
• Fasteners: Outdoor-rated zip ties, command hooks (specifically outdoor versions), strong outdoor tape, wire, or even small, carefully placed screws/nails for certain materials.
• Tools: Ladder (ensure it’s stable and safe for outdoor use), scissors, wire cutters, measuring tape.
• Gloves: To protect your hands, especially when working with rough materials or sharp tools.
• Safety Gear: If using a ladder, proper safety precautions are a must.

For outdoor lighting, look for products that are specifically rated for outdoor use and weather resistance. Check for certifications like UL certification to ensure safety standards are met.

Step-by-Step Guide: Decorating Your Outdoor Columns

Now that you’ve planned and gathered your supplies, let’s get decorating! We’ll cover a few popular and beginner-friendly methods.

Method 1: Wrapping with Garland and Lights

This is a classic and incredibly effective way to dress up your columns. It’s versatile and can be adapted to almost any column type.

1. Clean Your Columns: Wipe down your columns to remove any dirt, dust, or cobwebs. This helps decorations adhere better and looks tidier.
2. Plan Your Garland Placement: Decide if you want to wrap the garland vertically, spirally up the column, or just around the top and bottom. A spiral effect is very popular and visually appealing.
3. Secure the Top: Start at the top of the column. Use a zip tie or outdoor-rated hook to securely attach the end of your garland.
4. Wrap Tightly (But Not Too Tight!): Begin wrapping the garland around the column in your chosen pattern (e.g., a consistent spiral). Overlap sections slightly to avoid gaps. Don’t wrap so tightly that you constrict or damage the column material.
5. Add Lights: If you’re adding lights, it’s often easiest to weave them into the garland as you wrap it. Start with the light strand plugged into an outdoor-rated extension cord or outlet. Tuck the battery pack or plug securely.
6. Secure the Bottom: Once you reach the bottom, secure the end of the garland with another zip tie, hook, or strong tape. Trim any excess garland.
7. Adjust and Fluff: Step back and look at your work. Fluff out the garland and lights to fill any sparse areas and ensure a full, festive look.

Tip: For very tall columns, you might need a ladder. Always use a sturdy ladder on level ground and have someone spot you for safety.

Method 2: Using Large Decorative Bows and Ornaments

This method focuses on adding bold accents that make a statement.

1. Prepare Your Anchor Points: For a large bow or ornaments, you’ll need a secure way to hang them. Outdoor command hooks are excellent for this, especially on smooth surfaces. Ensure the hooks are rated for outdoor use and the weight of your decorations. For brick or stone, you might need to use wire wrapped around existing features or, as a last resort, specialized masonry hooks if they won’t damage the surface.
2. Attach the Bow or Ornament: If using a bow, loop the ribbon or wire through your anchor point and secure it. If hanging ornaments, use sturdy outdoor-rated wire or strong twine. Shatterproof ornaments are ideal for outdoor displays.
3. Add Complementary Elements (Optional): You can add a few strands of lights wrapped around the column, or weave in a few sprigs of faux greenery and berries around the bow or ornament for extra flair.
4. Distribute Evenly: If decorating multiple columns, ensure your bows or ornaments are placed at a similar height on each for symmetry.

Pro Tip: Wired ribbon is your best friend for outdoor bows because you can shape and reshape it beautifully to withstand breezes.

Method 3: Incorporating Natural Elements

For a more organic and perhaps eco-friendlier look, embracing natural elements is a wonderful idea.

1. Gather or Purchase Greenery: Collect fallen evergreen branches from your yard after pruning, or purchase bundles of fresh or artificial greenery like pine boughs, cedar, or eucalyptus.
2. Create a Base: You can either wrap bunches of greenery directly around the column, securing them with zip ties or outdoor wire, or create a DIY garland by wiring the branches together first.
3. Add Embellishments: Tuck in pinecones (you can secure them with hot glue if needed on artificial pieces, or wire them on for natural ones), faux berries, or even strategically placed LED fairy lights for sparkle.
4. Consider Fragrance: If using real evergreen branches, they’ll naturally scent the air around your entryway.

Sustainability Note: If using real greenery, look for sustainably sourced options. Avoid cutting live branches from protected trees or parks. Check local regulations regarding collecting natural materials.

Securing Decorations Safely and Effectively

Safety and security are paramount when decorating outdoors, especially because of weather and wind. Here’s a breakdown of safe attachment methods:

Popular Fastening Techniques

• Outdoor Command Hooks: These are a fantastic, damage-free option for smooth surfaces like painted wood, vinyl, or metal. They come in various weight capacities. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and removal.
• Zip Ties: Versatile and strong, zip ties are great for securing garlands, wreaths, or other items by looping them around the column or through small gaps.
• Outdoor Wire: Floral wire or craft wire can be used to tie items in place or to attach smaller elements to larger ones.
• Strong Outdoor Tape: Heavy-duty, waterproof tape can work for lighter items or to secure the ends of garlands temporarily, but it might leave residue.
• Screws/Nails (Use with Caution): For permanent or semi-permanent fixtures on wooden columns, small, rust-resistant screws or nails can be used. However, this can cause damage, so consider this a last resort and ensure they match the column’s finish if possible. Always remove them completely after the season.

Weather Considerations

Wind is the biggest enemy of outdoor decorations. Ensure everything is securely fastened. Heavy items should be placed lower on the column or secured with very robust methods.

Water can also be an issue. Ensure any electrical components are waterproof or well-protected. For natural greenery, consider if it can withstand rain or if it will wilt quickly.

Avoiding Damage to Your Columns

The goal is to make your columns look festive, not damaged. Always aim for methods that:

• Do not require excessive drilling or nails.
• Use adhesive products specifically designed for outdoor use and easy removal.
• Avoid anything that could permanently scratch, stain, or alter the column’s surface.

For more information on outdoor decorating safety and best practices, resources like CPSC’s holiday decoration safety guide offer valuable insights.

Creative Christmas Column Decoration Ideas

Let’s brainstorm some specific looks you can create:

Idea 1: The Classic Winter Wonderland

• Garland: Flocked or white artificial pine garland.
• Lights: Cool white fairy lights or small LED icicle lights.
• Accents: Silver or white shatterproof ornaments, faux frosted pinecones, and a large white or silver wired bow at the top.

Idea 2: Rustic Charm

• Garland: Natural-looking evergreen garland (real or artificial).
• Lights: Warm white mini lights or amber-colored LED lights.
• Accents: Burlap ribbon, large natural pinecones, clusters of faux red berries, and a large burlap bow.

Idea 3: Festive & Fun

• Garland: Red and green striped garland or a solid red garland.
• Lights: Red or green string lights.
• Accents: Large red shatterproof ornaments, candy cane picks, and a big red wired bow.

Idea 4: Elegant Simplicity

• Garland: Simple green garland with a touch of gold or silver tinsel.
• Lights: Warm white lights or delicate gold string lights.
• Accents: A few elegant gold or silver ornaments, and a sophisticated gold or deep jewel-toned wired bow. You could also wrap a single strand of lights around the column without garland.

Table: Decoration Ideas & Best Attachement Methods

Decoration Type	Best for Column Material	Recommended Attachment Method	Pros	Cons
Garland & Lights	All (Wood, Vinyl, Brick, Stone, Stucco)	Zip ties, outdoor wire, outdoor command hooks	Covers large areas, creates a full look, adaptable	Can be time-consuming to wrap evenly, may require ladder
Large Bows	All (especially smooth surfaces)	Outdoor command hooks, wire, heavy-duty zip ties	High impact, makes a statement, relatively quick	Can be blown around in strong winds if not secured well
Ornaments	All	Wire, sturdy twine, outdoor command hooks	Adds color and sparkle, can be hung at various heights	Shatterproof recommended, can be heavy if large
Natural Greenery Bundles	All	Zip ties, outdoor wire	Eco-friendly, natural look and scent, budget-friendly if using own clippings	Can dry out and shed, may not last entire season if real

Maintaining Your Decorations

Once your columns are decorated, it’s good to do a quick check now and then, especially after a windy or rainy spell. Ensure nothing has come loose and that lights are still functioning.

For real greenery, misting it occasionally with water can help keep it looking fresh for longer, especially in drier climates. Remove decorations promptly after the holiday season to prevent them from becoming weathered and to allow your columns to breathe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I attach lights to my outdoor columns without damaging them?

For smooth surfaces, outdoor-rated Command hooks or clips are excellent. For brick or stone, you can often wrap lights around the column and secure them with zip ties or outdoor-rated tape, or use wire that can be carefully looped around existing features without causing harm.

Can I use real plants or branches on my outdoor columns?

Yes, you can! Fresh evergreen branches, pinecones, and berries add a natural and festive touch. Just be aware that real greenery will dry out over time and may shed needles. Misting them can help prolong their freshness.

What is the best way to secure a large bow to a column?

A large wired bow can be secured using outdoor zip ties that go around the column, or by attaching it to sturdy outdoor Command hooks placed strategically on the column. Ensure the bow is tied securely to itself and then fastened to the column.

How tall are typical outdoor columns, and how much garland do I need?

Column heights vary greatly by home style, but many standard porch columns can be anywhere from 7 to 10 feet tall. It’s always best to measure your specific column and add a little extra for overlap and securing. For a spiral wrap, you’ll generally need about 1.5 to 2 times the height of the column in garland.

Are LED lights safe for outdoor Christmas decorating?

Yes, LED lights are generally very safe and energy-efficient for outdoor decorating. Always ensure that the lights you purchase are specifically rated for outdoor use, meaning they are weather-resistant and built to withstand the elements.

How can I decorate columns that are made of brick?

Decorating brick columns requires a bit more care to avoid damage. Use outdoor Command hooks or clips designed for