How to Keep a Cranberry and Popcorn Garland Fresh

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Stringing cranberry and popcorn garland often invokes thoughts of holiday seasons past, when families created their own Christmas decorations. Unfortunately, these homemade decorations just don't last as long as their mass-produced counterparts. While you cannot keep it fresh per say, there are steps you can take to preserve the cranberry and popcorn garland for use in future seasons.

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Cranberry and popcorn garland gives the tree a country chic look.
Image Credit: debbiehelbing/iStock/Getty Images

Things You'll Need

  • Cranberry and popcorn garland

  • Acrylic sealant spray

  • Airtight plastic container

  • 3 to 4 silica gel packets

Step 1

Stretch the cranberry and popcorn garland out on your work surface.

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Step 2

Shake the can of acrylic sealant spray vigorously for several seconds. Hold the can of acrylic sealant spray about 10-inches above the garland.

Step 3

Start at one end of the garland and coat it with a thin layer of the acrylic sealant. Continue in this manner while moving down the strand. Let the sealant dry for at least 12 hours.

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Step 4

Turn the garland over carefully and coat the backside of the garland with the acrylic sealant in the same manner as before. Let dry for at least 12 hours before using the cranberry and popcorn garland.

Step 5

Store the garland in an airtight plastic container after use. Add a few silica gel packets to the container before storing it away to help prevent moisture from building up in the storage container. Place the container in a cool and dry location.

Tip

  • Stale popcorn works best for decorations. You can make popcorn stale by leaving it out for at least 24 hours before stringing it with cranberries.
  • Protect the surface you are working on by covering it with a two sheet-thick layer of newspaper.

Warning

  • Use acrylic sealant spray in a well-ventilated area.
  • Always read and follow the directions found on the bottle of sealant spray.
  • Don't preserve cranberry and popcorn garland if using it outdoors. Instead, allow the homemade decoration to act as food for wildlife.

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