Decorating a Tree 101

ezgif.com-video-to-gif.gif

How many times have you searched Pinterest for the perfect way to decorate your Christmas tree? No matter what you do, or how much time you spend rearranging your ornaments, your tree just doesn’t look the way you’d envisioned? 

We have a tried and true process for decorating a tree to its fullest - no matter your interior style. Whether you’re into a monochrome look or vintage bulbs, you can follow our tips for a tree that lights up your home, and your soul, with the holiday spirit.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-1.jpg

Fluff your tree.

Shake out those branches, and let them fall into a relaxed shape. If you’re working with faux fauna, arrange each branch so that there aren’t any glaring holes in your tree’s silhouette.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-2.jpg

String your lights.

Test out each strand before connecting them and wrapping them around your tree, starting from the bottom all the way to the top. You’ll have a connecting end left near the peak, but we promise, that has a purpose later on.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-3.jpg

Hang a base layer of ornaments.

Stick to the classics here, and hang them evenly throughout your tree, even venturing into inner branches. These ornaments provide a great backdrop for the statement you’re about to make.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-4.jpg

Ornament layer #2.

This is where the fun comes in! Use ornaments with a mix of color and patterns to add something new to your tree each year. While the base ornaments can stay the same, this is the layer that adds a bit of this year’s personal style.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-5.jpg

Add texture.

Use feathers or branches to add texture to your tree. Stick them into your tree for more volume, and let them steal the show.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-7.jpg

Garland time!

Grab your favorite textured garland, or make your own with dried fruit and pinecones and wrap it around your tree, making sure not to completely overlap your strings of lights.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-8.jpg

Just when you thought you were done with ornaments…

Bring out your long, vertical ornaments and hang them from the ends of branches, mimicking the look of a snowfall or old fashioned tinsel.

dune-ornaments.jpg

Finally, the tree topper!

Break out your glowing star, an heirloom angel, or that beautiful handmade bow and fix it to the top of your tree. If your topper has the capability, plug it into the connecting end of your string of lights (told you there was a purpose!) and set your home aglow.

how-to-decorate-a-christmas-tree-10.jpg

Each of these layers adds something sweet to your tree. With every step, you’ll make your tree feel full and magical!

HomeEmma Leuman