For many people, decorating the Christmas tree is one of the most enjoyable parts of the holiday season. If you need a little help, let us guide you through the basics of Christmas tree decoration.
Step 1: Set Up the Tree
People often place their Christmas tree in the same spot year after year. Even when they move into a new house, they might already know exactly where the tree will go. But that doesn’t always mean the spot is ready. You’ll want to place your tree where you can view and enjoy it. Some people like to set their tree in a front window for all to see. If necessary, move furniture out of the way and make sure there is a clear path around the tree. When your location is ready, place your tree in the tree stand. Many artificial Christmas trees come with a tree stand, but you can also try a rotating tree stand for all-around enjoyment!
Step 2: Add Christmas Lights
Do you have a real or unlit artificial Christmas tree? Then it's time to add your favorite lights. Save yourself time and frustration and test your lights before you put them up. Replace any bulbs or fuses, if needed. The type of Christmas lights you use is up to you, and there is a wide variety from which to choose. White and multicolored mini LED lights are popular, but modern versions of vintage Christmas lights are common, too.
When stringing Christmas lights, we recommend starting from the top and working your way down. If you have a lighted tree topper, make sure you position the socket end of the string at the top of the tree.
Wind the lights around the tree in a spiral. Work in a zigzag from trunk to tip, laying some lights on branch tips and tucking some farther back into the tree for depth.
Step 3: Beautiful Tree Toppers
Your tree isn’t completely “dressed” without a Christmas tree topper. While angel and star tree toppers are popular, many other styles are available, including Santa Claus, snowflakes, bows and elegant finials. Whatever your style, there is a tree topper for you!
Step 4: Must-Have Ornaments
Finally, it’s time to add the ornaments! Christmas ornaments let you express your style and personality, play with a theme, concentrate on a color or coordinate with your decor. While some people wonder how many Christmas ornaments they need on their tree, there truly is no set number. However, some interior decorators offer basic guidelines.For trees under 9 feet tall, 10-15 standard-size ornaments per foot in height will provide an attractive amount of coverage. If your tree is 9 feet or taller, you can increase the amount to 12-20 ornaments per foot. For visual appeal, try using Christmas ornaments of various sizes throughout your tree. Shatterproof ornaments placed toward the bottom of the tree are a great option for households with pets or small children.
Step 5: Decorative Tree Skirt
Put the finishing touch on your Christmas tree with a decorative tree skirt. The tree skirt is a great way to complement your tree’s design theme while attractively hiding the stand. Christmas tree skirts come in various sizes, so make sure the one you choose will cover the stand but won’t extend far beyond the branch tips. Use your artificial Christmas tree’s profile and the product information provided regarding the tree’s diameter as your guide. For a modern alternative to a fabric tree skirt, consider a tree collar. Tree collars typically come in wood or metal box or cylinder shapes to decoratively hide the tree base.
That’s it – you’re done! You now have a beautifully decorated Christmas tree that will be the focal point of your holiday celebration. For more on Christmas decorating, check out our Decorating Resources.