A Christmas tree is the centerpiece of every home during the holiday season. Want to learn how to decorate it like a professional? In this article, we share expert decorating ideas that will make your tree look spectacular.
How To Decorate a Christmas Tree Step-By-Step
Follow these steps to make your tree look like a professional Christmas tree decorator styled it.
1. Build a Theme
Before you start decorating a Christmas tree, it’s important to choose a cohesive theme or concept. This could be based on a specific color palette, a collection of ornaments, or one of your interests. To get inspired, check out designer blogs, home décor websites, or Pinterest. Creating a mood board can help bring your vision to life and guide you in selecting the right decorations.
2. Fluff & Shape
Fluffing and shaping branches may take a while, but it is an essential part of the decorating process. This will help you achieve a lush and lifelike look for your tree. Follow these tips to make it easier:
- Ask family or friends to help shape your tree.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Refer to the product photo of the tree to easily recreate the look of the branches.
- When fluffing each branch, start from the inner branches and work your way outward.
- Shape the tree section by section, starting from the bottom. For taller trees, fluff the top section before attaching it to the tree to avoid using a ladder.
Looking to save time? Consider our Pre-Fluffed® trees. These trees are designed with memory wire branches that adjust into place as soon as you unbox them. The branches will hold their shape well, making it easier to set up the tree in the coming years.
3. String the Lights
Before hanging lights on a tree, make sure they’re working. Start at the bottom and work your way up, weaving the lights in and out of the branches.
You can skip this step with Balsam Hill’s pre-lit Christmas trees. Many of these trees come with our exclusive Easy Plug® technology, which includes pre-made light connections inside the trunk. Lighting your tree will be as simple as plugging it into a wall socket.
4. Divide the Tree into Sections
View your Christmas tree in sections: top, middle, and bottom. Style each section, starting from the top and working your way down. You can also segment your tree into quadrants to ensure two similar items aren’t too close together. For example, using two different styles of tree picks to mark the divisions can create a dramatic effect while maintaining a balanced look.
5. Dress the Tree
Learn how to decorate a Christmas tree like a professional with these tips.
Start With Classic Ornaments – Choose ornaments in a classic color scheme such as silver, gold, white, red, or green. These colors complement other tree decorations, allowing for a new theme each year.
Combine Large and Small Ornaments for Depth – There are no strict rules for hanging ornaments, but experts usually start with larger ones and place them deeper within the foliage to add depth, creating a beautiful, layered look. On the other hand, smaller ornaments look best when hung on the tips of the branches to create a draping effect. You can mix different sizes to make a bold statement.
Style With Ribbon – Decorate your tree like a professional by using Christmas tree ribbons as ornaments. We recommend using wired ones because they’re easier to shape and style. Select two ribbons with different styles and widths, layer them to create texture, and finish with a creative twist at the ends.
Fill in Gaps With Picks – Picks and sprays are great for filling in sparse areas of the tree. Additionally, they bring a different texture to the overall look. If you want a more natural feel, opt for picks such as berries, flowers, or pinecones. Alternatively, create a more elegant effect with crystal or pearl picks.
6. Bring In Interesting Details
Intricate accents elevate the look of your tree. If you have prized heirloom ornaments with gorgeous details, now is the time to use them. For vivid pops of color, group several floral picks to create points of interest.
7. Add a Tree Topper
Enhance your display with a tree topper that complements your theme. If you’re aiming for a designer look, improvisation is key. You can tie picks together in an elegant bouquet or use floral wire to secure ornaments and then add picks for drama. Adding a custom tree topper will give your tree its own unique personality, setting it apart from the rest.
8. Finish With a Skirt or Collar
Finally, create the perfect backdrop for your presents with a Christmas tree skirt that matches your theme. If you want a unique base, consider using a decorative tree collar as a stylish alternative. These collars are crafted from various materials, such as galvanized metal, wicker, capiz shells, and many others. They easily wrap around the tree stand for a quick and easy finishing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about decorating for Christmas like a pro.
How Do You Strategically Decorate a Christmas Tree?
Strategically decorating a Christmas tree involves choosing a cohesive theme or color scheme and selecting the right tree for your space. Start by stringing lights from the base to the top, ensuring even coverage. Next, add garland or ribbon, followed by hanging ornaments from largest to smallest, distributing them evenly for balance. Finish with a tree topper and a tree skirt to complete the look.
How Do You Decorate a Christmas Tree To Look Full?
To make your Christmas tree look full, focus on symmetry and balance, distributing decorations evenly around the tree. Use a variety of ornament sizes, shapes, and textures to create visual interest and depth. Ensure lights are well-spaced and reach into the branches for a warm, glowing effect. Add personal touches with sentimental ornaments and use larger decorations to cover gaps or imperfections.
When Decorating a Tree, What Goes on First?
Decorate your Christmas tree in the following order: start with the lights, weaving them in and out of the branches for even coverage. Next, add garland or ribbon, draping it evenly around the tree. Then, hang your ornaments, beginning with the largest and finishing with the smallest, ensuring they’re well-distributed. Finally, add the tree topper and a skirt to complete the decoration.
How To Decorate a Christmas Tree Professionally With Ribbon?
Choose wired ribbons that complement your theme and cut them into manageable lengths. Start at the top, creating loops and tucking the ribbon into the tree every 12-18 inches, twisting it for a cascading effect. Add large bows at strategic points to enhance the design and consider layering multiple ribbons of different textures and widths for added depth. This method creates a polished, professional look.
What Do People Traditionally Put on Top of a Christmas Tree?
Traditionally, people decorate the top of a Christmas tree with one of two main ornaments: a shining star or an angel figure. Less common but still traditional options include ornate finials, large illuminated snowflakes, or decorative bows, typically in red or gold. The choice often depends on family traditions, personal preferences, or cultural backgrounds, with some opting for unique or personalized toppers that hold special meaning for their family.
We hope these expert techniques and creative touches help you find the best way to decorate a Christmas tree. Click the button below to see our full collection of Christmas tree decorations, including ornaments, tree skirts, ribbons, and more.
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