Surrounded by your coils of twinkly lights, beautiful decorations and your family-heirloom tree topper, passed down from generation to generation, you could be fooled into thinking that decorating the Christmas tree is easy. Not always!
How can it be that, after hours of work, we stand back, covered head to toe with dust and glitter, to admire our magical creations and see nothing but bare sections, clumped lights, or unevenly distributed colour? To avoid that happening this year, follow this blow-by-blow blog made with the help of our fabulous visual merchandiser Nicole, who knows a thing or two about decorating Christmas trees.
What you need:
- Scissors or blade to open packages and trim items
- Step ladder or something safe to stand on to reach the top
- If it’s a real tree, cotton gloves are helpful to avoid scratches
- Wire
Which artificial tree should I choose?
A good-looking tree is essential – no matter how skilled you are at decorating, a scrawny tree is hard to disguise. If you’re choosing an artificial tree, it’s worth spending a little bit more to get natural-looking bristles. Our artificial Christmas trees have rounded, lifelike bristles at the ends of the branches, and this makes all the difference. Because we’re big fans of natural-looking trees, we tend to favour classic green trees or frosted trees over coloured trees. Besides, every colour of decoration looks great against a classic green tree – Mother Nature knew what she was doing!
Importance of a Good-Looking Tree
The appearance of your tree sets the stage for the rest of your decorations. A tree with lush, full branches provides a perfect canvas for your ornaments and lights. High-quality artificial trees are designed to mimic the look and feel of real trees, with realistic needles and sturdy branches that can hold a variety of decorations. Spending a little more on a good tree can save you frustration and help create a beautiful holiday centerpiece.
Classic Green vs. Frosted vs. Flocked Trees
Choosing the right style of tree depends on your personal taste and the look you want to achieve.
Classic Green Trees
Classic green trees are timeless and versatile, providing a perfect backdrop for any color of decorations. They mimic the natural appearance of a real tree, making them a popular choice. Green trees are a blank slate, allowing you to experiment with different color schemes and styles each year. Their natural look complements any holiday theme, from traditional to modern.
Frosted Trees
Frosted trees look like they’ve been brought inside after a light dusting of snow. The tips of the branches are lightly covered with “snow,” giving them a wintery appearance without being overwhelming. The Snowy Nordmann Hinged 7.5ft and the Mini Grandis tree at 90cm are great examples. Frosted trees add a touch of elegance and can make your home feel like a winter wonderland. They work well with white, silver, and blue decorations, enhancing the snowy effect.
Flocked Trees
Flocked trees appear heavily snow-covered, with branches that look weighed down by snow. Despite its name, the Frosted Andorra Fir 7.5ft is a flocked tree, offering a very wintery, snowy appearance. These trees are dramatic and eye-catching, perfect for creating a cozy, snow-laden scene indoors. Flocked trees pair beautifully with rustic, woodland-themed decorations, as well as classic red and gold ornaments.
Choosing the Right Size
When selecting the size of your tree, consider both the height and diameter. Here are some tips to help you choose the right size:
Standard Trees
Standard trees are great for larger spaces with plenty of room. They create a grand, impressive display and can hold a lot of decorations. If you have high ceilings and a spacious living area, a standard tree will be a striking focal point.
Slim or Pencil Trees
Slim or pencil trees are ideal for smaller spaces where a standard tree might be too wide. These trees have a narrower profile, making them perfect for apartments, small living rooms, or corners. Despite their slim shape, they can still be decorated beautifully and bring holiday cheer to compact areas.
Height and Diameter
Measure your space to ensure your tree fits comfortably. Nicole decorates an 8ft Grandis Fir, which is 244 cm tall and 182 cm in diameter. Allow at least 6 inches (15cm) between the top of your tree and the ceiling, and ensure there is space between the tree branches and your walls. This ensures that your tree looks proportionate and that you have room to move around it comfortably. Taking these measurements into account will help you avoid the disappointment of a tree that’s too large or too small for your space.
Decorating an 8ft Grandis Fir Real Feel Artificial Tree
Step 1: Fluffing the Tree
Start by fluffing out the tree to make it look full and natural. This means bending and arranging all the branches and bristles to eliminate gaps and give the tree a dense, lush appearance. If you’re assembling an artificial tree, fluff each section before attaching the next one.
Fluffing is a crucial step that many people overlook, but it makes a significant difference in the tree’s overall appearance. Spend time spreading out each branch and adjusting the needles to fill in any sparse areas. This process can take a while, especially with a large tree, but the effort is worth it. A well-fluffed tree provides a solid foundation for your decorations and looks more realistic.
Step 2: Adding Lights
Nicole recommends using 2000 compact lights for an 8ft tree. Here’s how to do it:
Wrapping Lights Around the Branches
Start at the bottom and work your way up, wrapping the lights around each branch. This ensures even coverage and makes the tree glow from all angles. Begin by wrapping the lights around the trunk and then weave them in and out of the branches, making sure to reach the tips. This method not only lights up the entire tree but also adds depth and dimension.
Extra Lights Around the Trunk
After you’ve wrapped the branches, use any extra lights to wrap around the trunk. This adds depth and interest to the center of the tree, creating a warm, glowing effect from within. Wrapping lights around the trunk ensures that the tree looks bright and vibrant, even in the center where it can sometimes appear dark. This technique enhances the overall look and makes the tree more captivating.
Step 3: Placing the Tree Topper
Add your tree topper (star, angel, or any other decoration) before adding other decorations. This allows you to secure the topper without disturbing the ornaments. Make sure it is centered and securely attached.
Placing the tree topper first helps you avoid knocking off ornaments or lights later on. Choose a topper that complements your overall theme, whether it’s traditional, modern, or whimsical. Ensure it’s securely fastened to avoid it tilting or falling as the tree settles. If your tree topper is heavy, use additional wire to secure it to the top branch.
Step 4: Hanging Baubles and Ornaments
When adding baubles and ornaments, it’s important to distribute them evenly and create depth:
Inner and Outer Placement
Place some baubles inside the tree near the trunk and others on the outer branches. This adds dimension and makes the tree look fuller. By decorating both the inner and outer branches, you create layers of interest that make the tree visually appealing from all angles. Use a mix of small and large ornaments to enhance this effect.
Cluster Baubles
For a different look, cluster baubles together using floristry wire. Tie three or more baubles together and attach the bunch to the tree. This creates a striking visual effect, resembling oversized berries. Clustering ornaments can make a bold statement and help you cover more area with fewer pieces. It’s also a great way to highlight special or themed decorations.
Step 5: Adding Christmas Foliage
Christmas foliage is a popular trend and adds a touch of nature to your tree:
Insert Wired Stems
Choose a branch and insert the wired stem of the foliage into the center of the tree. Wrap the leaves around the bristles to secure them. Adding foliage like holly, eucalyptus, or berry branches can enhance the tree’s natural look and introduce different textures. Position them strategically to fill gaps and add bursts of color.
Separate Larger Pieces
For a more scattered look, separate larger pieces of foliage and place them individually around the tree. Ensure the colorful side is facing out for maximum impact. This technique allows you to spread the foliage more evenly and integrate it seamlessly with your ornaments. It also gives the tree a more balanced and cohesive appearance.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
To complete the look, hide any wires, transformers, and plugs by placing decorations around the base of the tree:
Base Decorations
Use wrapped presents, lanterns, battery-operated candles, Christmas ornaments, and fabric to decorate around the foot of the tree. These items not only hide unsightly wires but also add to the festive ambiance. Choose decorations that match your tree’s theme to create a cohesive look.
Tree Skirt
Cover the tree stand with a tree skirt to give a neat and finished appearance. A tree skirt can add a decorative touch and help to conceal the tree stand and any wires. Choose a tree skirt that complements your overall decor, whether it’s a simple, classic design or something more elaborate and festive. It also provides a perfect backdrop for your gifts, enhancing the overall presentation of your tree.
Recommended Decorations for an 8ft Tree
Nicole suggests the following decorations for a beautifully adorned 8ft tree:
- 6 Burgundy Poinsettias: These rich, deep red flowers add a classic holiday touch and contrast beautifully with green branches.
- 6 Timepiece Hangers: These unique ornaments can add a vintage or whimsical touch, depending on their design.
- 9 Fabric Bows: Large, festive bows can fill gaps and add a soft, elegant touch to your tree.
- 7 Gold Poinsettias: These glittering flowers add a touch of luxury and sparkle.
- 7 Clocks: Similar to the timepiece hangers, these can add a unique and intriguing element to your tree.
- 3 Tubes of Baubles (each color): Mixing different colors of baubles can create a vibrant, festive look.
- 5 Red Glitter Leaves: These add a pop of color and a bit of sparkle.
- 5 Gold Glitter Leaves: These add a luxurious touch and complement the gold poinsettias.
- 7 Gold Deer: These ornaments can add a whimsical or rustic touch, depending on their style.
- 3 Large Gold Baubles: Larger baubles help fill in space and add to the tree’s grandeur.
- 2 Large Green Baubles: These can blend in with the tree while still adding a decorative touch.
- 3 Large Red Baubles: These stand out and add bold color.
- 2 Small Gold Baubles: These fill in gaps and add a touch of sparkle.
- 3 Large Green Baubles: Similar to the large gold baubles, these blend with the tree while adding fullness.
- 3 Red Glitter Glass Baubles: These add a touch of elegance and sparkle, reflecting the tree lights beautifully.
After the Festive Season
When it’s time to take down your decorations and store your tree, proper storage is key to preserving your tree and decorations for future use. Use these handy Christmas tree storage bags to protect your tree:
Small Storage Bag
Dimensions: H-33cm x W-100cm x D-48cm. This size is ideal for smaller trees or for storing tree sections if your tree can be disassembled. A durable storage bag will protect your tree from dust, dirt, and damage while it’s in storage. Look for bags with handles to make transport easier.
Large Storage Bag
Dimensions: H-72cm x W-142cm x D-72cm. This larger size is perfect for bigger trees or those with fuller branches. Storing your tree properly in a large, sturdy bag ensures it remains in good condition year after year. Ensure the bag is made of durable material and has secure closures to keep your tree safe from moisture and pests.
By following these detailed steps and using the right decorations, your Christmas tree will look stunning and festive, creating a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere in your home. Happy decorating!
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