How to Hang Wreaths on Outside Windows Properly

Hanging wreaths on outside windows might seem difficult, but we’ll guide you through the process so that you don’t damage your home. The process is different for double-hung windows, which have an operable upper sash, versus single-hung windows, which have a stationary upper sash.

Whatever type of exterior window you have, you can rest easy knowing that it’s possible to hang a wreath on it. In the following sections, we’ll explore how to hang wreaths on both double-hung and single-hung windows, and pass on some tips to help you avoid damage:

• Hanging Wreaths on Double-Hung Windows
• Hanging Wreaths on Single-Hung Windows
• Helpful Damage Control Tips

Hanging Wreaths on Double-Hung Windows

• Time Required: 30 minutes or less
• Materials Needed: Thick ribbon, thumbtack/pin, and a hot glue gun

To hang a wreath on a double-hung window, all you need is your favorite wreath, a wide, sturdy fabric ribbon, hot glue and a thumbtack. You can even hang your wreath without venturing outside!

Here’s how:

1. Buy festive ribbon - Wider ribbon usually looks best (2+ inches wide) and will be sturdier than thinner ribbon. To create a more cohesive look, the ribbon’s color and pattern should complement the greenery, the season and your home’s siding.
2. Measure the height of your window - Add 8 to 10 inches to that height measurement and cut a length of ribbon that long. You can always cut away the excess, but you can’t add more fabric!
3. Loop the ribbon through the top of the wreath to create a “U” shape - If you have vinyl or metal windows, tie the ends of the ribbon into a large knot. If your windows are wooden, you can either tie a knot or leave the ends loose for now.
4. Use hot glue to secure the ribbon in place on the back of the wreath - This will keep it from spinning in the wind and getting lopsided. If you decided to leave the ribbon ends loose (because you have wood windows), glue those loose ends together now as well.
5. Clean your windows so you don’t have to display your festive wreath on dirty glass – Clean windows look better, and won’t dirty your wreath. If locally available, Window Genie^® can clean your windows while they hang your wreaths and other holiday decor.
6. Open the top of the window and dangle the wreath outside - Keep a firm hold on the long tail of the ribbon. If you used the knotted ribbon method, simply close the top window on the ribbon, with the knot still inside, and lock it. If you used the glued-ends method (for wood windows), secure the ribbon on the top sash with a thumbtack before closing and locking the window.
7. Enjoy your newly hung wreath!

Extra tips to change the look:

If you don’t like seeing a knot inside your window, wrap and glue the ribbon ends around a short piece of dowel rod. This will act as an anchor, just like the knot, but with a cleaner aesthetic.

If you are hanging a winter holiday wreath, why not add some holiday lights around your windows too? View holiday lighting page on Mr. Electric^® for inspiration on how you can bring some more festivity to your home exterior.

Three Methods for Hanging Wreaths on Single-Hung Windows

Hanging wreaths on single-hung windows is slightly different from hanging one on a double-hung window. Here are three methods you can use:

Method 1 – Fishing Line

• Time Required: 30 minutes or less
• Materials Needed: Fishing line or similar thin wire

If you have shutters, you can create the illusion of a floating wreath with fishing line by following these steps:

1. Tie a long piece of fishing line to one shutter and loop it through the top of the wreath several times.
2. Then tie the other end of the line to the opposite shutter.
3. Pull the fishing line taut to anchor your wreath.

Method 2 – Suction Cup Hooks

• Time Required: About 15 minutes (closer to 30 minutes if windows are not already clean)
• Materials Needed: Suction cup hooks

You can attach your wreath directly to clean, undamaged windows glass with a suction cup hook. Here’s how:

1. Clean your windows using window cleaner spray and a microfiber cloth.
2. Measure your window to find the right place to center your wreath.
3. Attach the suction cup hooks in a location that centers your wreath within the window.
4. Hang your wreath on the suction cup hooks.

Method 3 – Magnet Hooks

• Time Required: About 20 minutes
• Materials Needed: Magnet hooks

Magnet hooks come in two separate pieces and work for single-pane windows and windows with metal frames. Follow these steps when using magnet hooks:

1. Attach the magnetized end of the hook to the inside of your metal window frame.
2. Place hook end of the magnet on the window’s exterior.
3. Hang the wreath on the hook.

Helpful Damage Control Tips

Scratched glass is never a good look. Use hot glue to attach a layer of felt to the wreath’s underside to protect your window from prickly pine needles and sharp wire. Additionally, even if you hung the wreath from the top sash, consider double securing it with a suction cup hook on the glass.

When hanging wreaths on the side of your house, there should never be a need to drill through your expensive siding. Try using floral wire, fishing line, removable adhesive hooks or magnet hooks.

If your patience is running short – or you’ve already damaged your siding – look for one of our nearby Mr. Handyman^® locations. We have both carpentry expertise and holiday décor services.

Lean on Home Service Professionals

Now that you know how to hang wreaths on outside windows, it’s time to dress up your home. What other home improvements or repairs do you have in mind? No matter what you need, there’s a Neighborly^® brand ready to help! Search our extensive home services to find experts you can trust.