Christmas Tree Decorating

Christmas tree decorating isn't hard once you know a few tricks. I have studied trees through the years to see what elements make a stunning tree.

First you need to decide if you're are going to go with a real tree or use an artificial one. It really is up to you. There are pros and cons to both.

If your family has always used a real tree, then you probably will go that route. There is no wrong way or right way. Just do what feels right for you.

Real trees are more work, so do your homework and know all you need to know to have one.

The next thing you need to think about is what size tree. You'll need room at the top for a Christmas tree topper. If you're in a limited space this Christmas, don't be a Bah Humbug. Put up a small tree and decorations here and there. I've had big trees and I've had tiny trees. I've shown a picture of one of my tiny trees. I so love to decorate for Christmas, that I don't let anything stop me. Even when I had to live in a tiny trailer for a spell.

Christmas Tree Decorating Shopping Tips

Before you even begin, you must decide what color scheme you are going with. It helps to unify everything. It's also the secret to any fabulous decorating. You'll want 2-3 colors. Unless you're going for a more traditional tree. Then you can add more Christmas colors. It looks better to only have a few though. To help you decide, here are some great color combos for Christmas.

• Pink, white, and silver
• Blue ,white, and silver
• Cold pink, light green, and silver
• Light green, robin's egg blue, and silver
• Red, green, and gold
• Raspberry and lime green
• Red and white
• White and silver
• Light blue and white
• Pink and white
• Purple, green, and gold
• Red, brown, and green
• Teal and copper
• Turquoise and brown
• Pink, brown, and gold
• Hot pink, orange, and lime green
• Hot pink and animal print
• Orange, lime green, and turquoise
• Black and white

Of course the list could could go on and on. Look around you to see what colors you like, and go from there. Now when you head to the store, you'll know what to buy. If you stay in your color scheme, it'll look fantastic. You can mix and match modern and vintage styles as long as your colors are the same. Great decorating tip!

You do need to think about what style you want and stick with it. You would not want gorgeous pink cabbage roses and popcorn garland. That would be awful. Some styles include, Country, Shabby Chic, Vintage, Victorian, Modern, Traditional, and Casual. Keep your tree the same decor as your house. It will flow better.

Lights

After you get your tree all in place, you'll want to add your lights first. There are colored lights and clear lights. To decide which ones to use you need to know what direction you are going. For a more dressy look, use the clear. If you're going for a more casual look, use the all colored ones. Start at the bottom in the back and wind your lights loosely in around the branches. You'll probably need about 3-4 strands of lights for an average 6 ft. tree. Do more or less according to your taste.

Filler

I like to use a lot of filler on my trees. It makes them look full. I stuff it in between the branches. Things you can use for filler include, greenery, silk flowers, tulle, baby's breath, dried flowers, feathers, ect. When I do a Victorian tree, I use a lot of filler. The tree looks fabulous even before I start putting on ornaments.

Ornaments

Next thing you need to do is add all your ornaments. You can purchase them or check out these Homemade Ornaments. Use ribbon, string, or wire to attach the ornaments onto the tree. Try to place them evenly around the tree. Another great decorating tip is you don't have to decorate the whole tree. If it's in a corner and the back can't be seen, don't decorate it. A few years I only had limited space, so I only put the branches in the front half of the tree. I filled in the front with leftover branches. I tied a string to the trunk and secured it to the wall. It takes up less space and most people will never even notice. You use half of the ornaments as well.

Garland

Garland comes next. I like to use ribbon, but you can also use...popcorn, cranberries, pearl garlands, flower garlands, beads, construction paper garland, or regular garland. You can do this two ways. the first way is to start at the top of the tree and loosely twist (if you're using ribbon) and let it cascade down the tree. The second way is to start at the top and loosely twist (if you're using ribbon) and loop in and out of branches. Go all the way around and down. Keep everything nice and loose. Wired ribbon is great because you can position it where you need it to go. You can also make bows with the ribbon and place on the tree. Popcorn or cranberries are a nice touch to a country Christmas tree. Remember to keep with your style that you decided in the beginning.

Christmas Tree Toppers

There are several options for your topper. You can use a star or an angel. Or you can add a big bow or flowers. I like to stick some flowers or filler up in the back behind the topper to give the tree height and make it look more grand.

Tree Skirt

Make or purchase a tree skirt to cover the legs or tree holder. You'll want to keep with the color scheme.

I hope these Christmas tree decorating ideas helped. I know you'll do a great job and wow all your family and guests this year. Happy Holidays!

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