Figuring out how to hang wreath on brick fireplace setups can be a real headache if you aren't thrilled about the idea of drilling permanent holes into your masonry. Let's be honest: that brick fireplace is probably the focal point of your entire living room. It's where everyone gathers, it's where the stockings go during the holidays, and it's where you want to show off that beautiful, oversized wreath you just bought or spent hours DIY-ing. But brick is intimidating. It's hard, it's uneven, and if you mess up a hole, you're stuck looking at it forever.
The good news is that you have quite a few options that don't involve a power drill and a prayer. Whether you're looking for a temporary fix for the holidays or a more permanent way to display decor year-round, there's a solution that fits your specific fireplace.
The Magic of Brick Clamps
If you haven't heard of brick clamps (sometimes called brick hangers), you're about to have your mind blown. These little metal contraptions are probably the best invention for anyone living in a brick-heavy home. They work by using tension and small metal "teeth" that grip the top and bottom edges of an individual brick.
The beauty of these is that they require zero tools. You just find a brick that sticks out slightly from the mortar—which is the case for most standard brick walls—and snap the clamp on. Because they rely on the physical structure of the brick, they can hold a surprising amount of weight. Most standard clamps can easily support a 20-pound wreath without budging.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is that your mortar needs to be slightly recessed. If your mortar is flush with the face of the brick, the clamp won't have anything to grab onto. But for most traditional fireplaces, this is a total game-changer. They're invisible once the wreath is up, and when the season is over, you just pop them off and toss them in your decor bin for next year. No marks, no dust, no drama.
Using the Mantle to Your Advantage
If you have a mantle sitting above your brick, you might not even need to touch the brick itself. Many people overlook the most straightforward method: hanging the wreath from the mantle using a long, decorative ribbon or a piece of heavy-duty fishing line.
This is a classic look that adds a bit of "designer" flair. You can find a wide velvet ribbon for a cozy winter vibe or a rustic burlap for the fall. You simply loop the ribbon through the wreath frame, run it up over the top of the mantle, and secure it on the flat top surface. To keep it in place, you can use a small Command hook laid flat on the top of the mantle (where nobody can see it) or even a heavy decorative object like a heavy vase or a stack of books to weight it down.
If you prefer the "floating" look, fishing line is your best friend. It's incredibly strong and practically invisible. It allows the wreath to sit exactly where you want it on the brick face while the actual support comes from the sturdy wood or stone of the mantle above.
Can You Really Use Adhesive Hooks?
We've all seen the commercials where adhesive hooks hold up everything but the kitchen sink. When it comes to how to hang wreath on brick fireplace surfaces, the answer is a solid "maybe."
Standard adhesive hooks usually struggle with brick because the surface is porous and dusty. The sticky pad just can't get a good grip on all those tiny nooks and crannies. However, if your brick is painted or has a very smooth finish, you might have better luck.
If you want to go the adhesive route, you have to prep the surface like a pro. Take a stiff brush and scrub away any loose grit or dust on the specific brick you're targeting. Then, wipe it down with some rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely. Use the "Outdoor" or "Heavy Duty" versions of these hooks, as the adhesive is formulated to be a bit more aggressive.
Pro tip: Don't hang the wreath immediately. Let the hook sit there for 24 hours to really bond before you add any weight. If you're hanging a heavy, expensive wreath, maybe put a soft pillow on the hearth for the first night—just in case it decides to take a tumble!
The Old-School Masonry Nail Approach
Sometimes, you just want something permanent. If you plan on having a wreath or a large piece of art on that fireplace forever, you might decide that drilling is worth it. But before you go ham with a standard nail, stop! You need masonry-specific hardware.
If you're going to do this, aim for the mortar joints rather than the brick itself. Mortar is much softer and easier to drill into, and more importantly, it's much easier to patch later if you change your mind. A small masonry nail or a screw with a wall anchor will stay put for decades.
To do this right, you'll need a masonry bit and a power drill. Just go slow. Brick can crack if you apply too much pressure too fast. Once the hole is in and the anchor is set, you can screw in a nice brass hook that looks intentional and high-end, even when there isn't a wreath hanging from it.
Dealing with Rough and Uneven Surfaces
One of the biggest struggles with brick fireplaces is that they are rarely perfectly flat. If your wreath is leaning at a weird angle or won't sit flush against the wall, it can look a bit "off."
If your wreath is tilting forward, it's usually because the hook is sticking out too far or the wreath frame is too thick at the top. You can fix this by adding a little "spacer" at the bottom of the wreath. A small piece of foam or even some balled-up bubble wrap taped to the back of the bottom of the wreath frame can push the bottom out just enough to make it sit parallel to the fireplace.
Also, be mindful of the heat. If you actually use your fireplace, the brick can get quite warm. Some adhesives can melt or lose their bond when exposed to constant heat. If you're a frequent fire-starter, the mechanical methods like brick clamps or the ribbon-over-the-mantle trick are definitely the safer bets.
Weight Matters More Than You Think
Before you choose your method, weigh your wreath. It sounds silly, but a "lightweight" looking wreath made of grapevine and dried flowers can actually be pretty heavy once you add lights, ornaments, and a big bow.
- Light wreaths (under 5 lbs): Adhesive hooks (on smooth brick) or fishing line.
- Medium wreaths (5-10 lbs): High-quality brick clamps.
- Heavy wreaths (10+ lbs): Heavy-duty brick clamps or a masonry screw in the mortar.
Don't forget to account for the "swing" factor. If your house has a bit of a draft or if the fireplace is near a high-traffic area, a wreath that isn't secured well might wobble. You can use a tiny bit of florist wire or even some clear Command strips at the bottom of the wreath to "tack" it down so it stays perfectly centered.
Wrapping Things Up
Hanging decor on brick doesn't have to be a DIY nightmare. It's all about working with the texture of the brick rather than fighting against it. If you're renting or just don't want to commit to a hole in the wall, brick clamps are hands-down the winner. They're cheap, they work, and they won't ruin your fireplace.
If you want something a bit more aesthetic, the ribbon-over-the-mantle trick adds a touch of elegance that a plain hook just can't match. Whatever you choose, just make sure you give it a little "tug test" before you walk away. There's nothing worse than hearing a thud in the middle of the night and finding your beautiful wreath sitting in the ashes!
Take your time, check your measurements twice, and soon your fireplace will be looking like it belongs in a home decor magazine. Brick is a beautiful, classic material—don't let it intimidate you from decorating exactly the way you want.