How long should your mantel garland be?
Measure the mantel width and add how far you want the garland to hang down on each side. A 6 foot mantel with a 1 foot drop on each side needs about 8 feet of garland, or 9 feet with a little swag.
Quick chart
| Mantel width | No drop | 1 ft drop each side | 2 ft drop each side |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 ft | 4 ft | 6 ft | 8 ft |
| 5 ft | 5 ft | 7 ft | 9 ft |
| 6 ft | 6 ft | 8 ft | 10 ft |
| 7 ft | 7 ft | 9 ft | 11 ft |
| 8 ft | 8 ft | 10 ft | 12 ft |
How this works
This is plain measuring and not a decorating rule, so your own eye gets the last word. A lie-flat garland needs only the width. A draped garland needs extra, which is why the calculator adds 10 percent for swag when you ask for it.
Garland is usually sold in 6 and 9 foot pieces, and you can overlap two to get the length. Check the fit near any heat source, and keep greenery away from a fire that is lit.
Finish the room with the printable Christmas Table Set
Questions
- What length garland for a 6 foot mantel?
- About 6 feet to lie flat, or about 8 feet with a 1 foot drop on each side.
- Can I join two garlands?
- Yes. Overlap them in the middle and wire them together, then add a few picks to hide the join.
- Is it safe over a working fireplace?
- Keep greenery well away from flame and heat, and follow the fireplace maker's clearances.
More calculators
By Home with June. June is a fictional host. These are rules of thumb and simple arithmetic to help you plan, so adjust by eye.