Decorating a Christmas tree is the highlight of the festive season. The latest Christmas decor trend indicates that we’ll be having several ‘show trees’ in the home this year, not just in the living room, but trees (although perhaps smaller) in the kitchen, hallway and bedroom. : So if you want to learn some quick, easy tricks on how to dress your artificial Christmas tree to perfection, then we’ve got you covered.

We’ve asked stylists and designers – including the expert team at Balsam Hill whose artificial Christmas trees have graced the TV sets of Good Morning Britain, This Morning and The Jonathan Ross Show – to share their top secrets.

Preparation: The Tools You’ll Need for Success

Before decorating, ensure you have everything you need for a smooth process. The right tools can make a big difference in how quickly and easily you can create your masterpiece. Here’s your checklist:

1. Cotton Gloves: These protect your hands from scratches while fluffing and shaping branches.
2. Scissors: Essential for trimming ribbons, cutting packaging, and adjusting materials.
3. Sturdy Ladder or Step Stool: A must-have for safely reaching the top of taller trees.
4. Storage Containers: If you’re reusing decorations from past years, organized storage makes it easier to find what you need.

With these tools in hand, you’re ready to transform your tree into the centerpiece of your holiday decor.

1. Select the Right Tree for Your Space

The foundation of any beautifully decorated tree is the tree itself. Choosing the right one depends on your style preferences, available space, and whether you want a real or artificial tree.

Artificial Trees

• Durability: High-quality artificial trees are made to last for years. They’re sturdy, reliable, and easy to decorate.
• Traditional Designs: Opt for a timeless design that won’t go out of style and offers a versatile base for various themes.
• Space-Saving Options: If you’re working with limited space, look for slim or pencil-shaped trees that fit snugly into smaller areas without sacrificing style.
• Pre-Lit vs. Unlit: Pre-lit trees save time and hassle, but unlit trees allow for more customization with your preferred style of lights.

Real Trees

• Freshness: A real tree brings the natural beauty and fragrance of the outdoors into your home. Popular varieties include Nordmann Fir, known for its sturdy branches, and Norway Spruce, prized for its classic shape.
• Sustainability: If you choose a real tree, consider buying from local tree farms or markets to reduce environmental impact.

Tip: Artificial trees are more eco-friendly if used for at least seven years. If you choose a real tree, remember to recycle it after the season.

2. Shape and Fluff the Branches

This step is often overlooked, but it’s crucial to creating a full, natural-looking tree.

• Start from the Bottom: Begin at the base and work your way up, spreading each branch outward.
• Fill Gaps: Adjust individual branches to cover empty spots and create a uniform appearance.
• Use Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from scratches, especially if your tree has wire branches.

A well-fluffed tree provides the perfect canvas for decorations, no matter how simple or elaborate your design.

3. Decide on a Theme

A cohesive theme ties your decorations together and elevates the overall look of your tree.

Here are some popular themes to inspire you:

• Classic Christmas: Red, green, and gold ornaments paired with lush ribbons.
• Rustic Charm: Natural textures like burlap, wood, and pinecones for a cozy, Nordic-inspired look.
• Winter Wonderland: Frosted ornaments, icy blues, and silvers for a dreamy, snow-covered effect.
• Modern Minimalism: Simple shapes and neutral colors for a sleek, contemporary vibe.

Choosing a theme makes it easier to pick decorations and ensures your tree has a polished, professional finish.

4. Choose a Color Palette

Once you’ve settled on a theme, select a color scheme to match. Sticking to two or three colors keeps the look clean and balanced.

• Traditional: Red, green, and gold for a timeless holiday feel.
• Scandinavian: White, beige, and natural wood tones for understated elegance.
• Glamorous: Metallics like silver, gold, and champagne for a luxe, sparkling tree.

Don’t forget to incorporate textures! Combine materials like glass, velvet, and wood for added visual interest.

5. Add Lights First

Lights are the foundation of your tree’s glow. If your tree isn’t pre-lit, this step is key to creating a magical atmosphere.

• How Many Lights?: The general rule is 100 bulbs or 5 meters of lights per 2 feet of tree height. For a 6-foot tree, that’s around 300 bulbs or 15 meters of lights.
• Placement Tips:
  • Start at the bottom and wrap lights around the trunk.
  • Work upward, weaving lights evenly along the branches.
  • Alternate bulbs under and over branches to create depth.

Pro Tip: Warm white lights create a cozy glow, while cool white or colored lights add a playful touch.

6. Balance Your Decorations

Balance is key to a visually appealing tree. Start decorating from the top and work your way down.

• Baubles:
• Hang larger ornaments closer to the trunk for depth.
• Use smaller ones on the outer branches for balance.
• Cluster in Groups: Arrange ornaments in groups of three for a designer look.

Add special ornaments last, ensuring they’re displayed prominently.

7. Incorporate Ribbons and Picks

Ribbons and picks add texture and dimension to your tree.

• Ribbons: Use wired ribbons to create loops or bows. Drape them diagonally or in cascading spirals for a flowing effect.
• Tree Picks: Add sprigs of berries, pinecones, or floral sprays to fill gaps and enhance the theme.

Mixing these elements creates a layered, professional appearance.

8. Add Scent for a Festive Touch

Make your tree smell like Christmas with scented ornaments or sticks. Scents like pine, cinnamon, and winter berries create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

9. Top It Off with a Stunning Tree Topper

The tree topper is the finishing touch that completes your design. Choose a topper that complements your theme, whether it’s a traditional star, angel, or something unique like a handmade bow. Ensure your topper fits proportionally to your tree and leaves clearance below the ceiling.

10. Finish with a Tree Skirt or Base Covering

A tree skirt ties the look together while hiding the tree stand. It’s also a practical addition for real trees, as it catches fallen needles. For an alternative, consider a tree collar or basket for a rustic, modern look.

11.Picking the Perfect Tree Topper

The tree topper is the crowning feature of your Christmas tree and the final touch that completes your festive display. To choose the right one, think about the theme and size of your tree, as well as the height of your ceiling. A topper that’s too big might overpower the tree or hit the ceiling, while one that’s too small could get lost in the decorations.

Classic tree toppers like stars and angels are timeless choices and loved by many. However, there are plenty of unique designs to explore if you want something different. From sparkling snowflakes to whimsical ornaments, the options are endless. Personalized toppers are also a wonderful way to make your tree stand out, and if you enjoy crafts, creating your own topper can be a fun and meaningful project for the family.

12.Enhancing Your Tree with a Skirt

A tree skirt is often overlooked but plays an important role in decorating your Christmas tree. It covers up the base, hiding the stand, trunk, or any unsightly “legs,” and gives the tree a neat, finished appearance. A well-chosen tree skirt can tie your decorations together, creating a balanced and harmonious look.

If you have a real tree, a tree skirt is also practical. It helps catch falling pine needles and protects your floor or carpet. For artificial trees, it softens the base and enhances the overall design. Additionally, a tree skirt serves as a beautiful backdrop for gifts. Placing presents on top of a festive skirt adds an extra layer of charm to your holiday display.

Create a Tree You’ll Love

Decorating your Christmas tree is all about spreading joy and making your home feel festive. Whether you’re going for elegance, whimsy, or tradition, let your personality shine through. Turn on some holiday music, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the process—it’s the heart of what makes the season special!