There’s just something about a big, chunky bead garland that makes a space feel warm, layered, and pulled together. They look like classic wooden beads, but here’s the fun part — these aren’t wood at all!
In this DIY Large Bead Garland, we show you how to create oversized “wood-look” beads using pantyhose and styrofoam balls. It’s a simple, budget-friendly trick that gives you that cozy, organic texture without the price tag of real wood. Whether you drape it across a mantel, style it on a shelf, or loop it in a bowl, this easy project makes a beautiful statement piece that feels perfectly at home in farmhouse, vintage, or neutral decor.
Here are the supplies I used:
- These Styrofoam balls from Walmart – I used 4 packs: https://walmrt.us/4af1iQT
- I used these tights for this DIY – I would recommend small or medium: https://walmrt.us/4qfVsEM
- I used this fishing line from Walmart: https://walmrt.us/45Oi0oZ
- Scissors
- Wire
I used the cream tights from the pack. You will need both legs of the tights for this DIY.
I started out by simply sliding one styrofoam ball down the leg of the tights. As soon as I did this, I knew it was exactly what I wanted!
Then, I twisted the tights around and tied fishing line around the top of the styrofoam ball to secure it.
I repeated those steps again.
Each strand has 12 styrofoam balls. You will see that I tied little knots on each side — this gives the wire something to hold onto.
I added wire to each end so I could attach it more easily to the greenery on my mantel.
No one will ever guess that this beautiful statement piece is made out of a pair of tights and styrofoam balls!
I love projects like this — simple, creative, and completely customizable to fit your home. Once you make one garland, you’ll probably find yourself dreaming up all kinds of ways to use them throughout your space.
If you try this DIY Large Bead Garland, I’d love to see how you style it! Don’t forget to share your creation with us and tag The Shabby Tree — we always enjoy seeing your creative spin on these ideas. Happy crafting!
