It's that time of year again, time to take the Christmas tree out of the attic, fluff it, and decorate it. Or perhaps you just bought a new tree and upon unboxing it, realized that it's in dire need of fluffing. And if you're like most, you haphazardly fluff the tree every year because it's tedious, and you're never sure if you're doing it right. So, what exactly is the proper way to fluff an artificial Christmas tree? For your convenience, we brought you the answer.
To fluff an artificial Christmas tree, start by unfolding all of the main branches that stick out from the center of the tree. Next, starting at the center of the tree, unfold the smaller branches, ensuring that the artificial foliage adequately covers any gaps that reveal the center of the tree. Then, bend the tips slightly in alternating directions for a natural look. Lastly, make any minor adjustments to fill in any gaps.
If you still have some questions about fluffing a Christmas tree, don't worry. In this guide, we'll discuss the topic in greater detail. We'll also provide some pointers for lighting and flocking a Christmas tree. Without further ado, let's get into it, shall we?
How To Fluff A Christmas Tree
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If you're like most, you don't look forward to unfolding and properly fluffing a Christmas tree. But the process doesn't have to be difficult or tedious with the right tips and technique. Here we'll talk about the fluffing process in greater detail.
Unfold The Main Branches
Start by unfolding the branches that attach to the tree's center. These branches should stick out at approximately 90 degrees from the center, just like the branches of a natural Christmas tree. Once these primary branches are unfolded, you'll notice that you can clearly see the artificial tree's center since the smaller branches are clumped together, and this brings us to the next step.
Unfold The Smaller Branches
Unfold the smaller branches starting at the tree's center. To be more precise, these branches should be approximately 45 to 75 degrees from the main branches. In other words, when viewed from the side, these small branches should make a "V" shape with the larger branches they're attached to.
The goal here is to cover as much of the tree's center as possible. Try to fluff the artificial foliage to provide maximum coverage for a more natural, lush look.
Slightly Bend The Tips Of The Branches
Then, add a hint of curvature to the very tips of the branches. Bend some upward and others downward, ensuring that they look as natural as possible.
Side note: this step will make it easier to hang ornaments later on, as the slight bends in the branch tips will keep heavier ornaments from falling off.
Make Any Minor Adjustments
Lastly, take a step back from the tree to get a better look at it. Are there any glaring gaps in foliage coverage? If so, simply bend the branches any which way to make the tree look full, fluffed, and visually balanced. Be sure to walk all around the tree to identify any spots that need to be touched up.
How Do You Put Lights On A Christmas Tree Like A Pro?
If your tree isn't pre-lit, you'll have to wrap it the old-fashioned way. If this sounds daunting, don't worry. If you follow a few simple tips, you can easily put lights on your tree like a pro.
1. Ensure That The Bulbs Work
Before you get started wrapping the tree, check that all of the bulbs actually work. Whether the strand of lights is years old or brand new, there's a chance that some of the lights (or an entire section of them) don't work.
Simply plug the lights into an outlet. This will determine whether or not any bulbs need replacing and whether a strand of lights is outright defective. The last thing you want is to meticulously wrap lights around the tree only to realize that a strand needs to be replaced altogether.
Once you establish that all of the lights work properly, you're ready to proceed.
2. Use An Alternating Weave Pattern
Feel free to start wrapping the lights either at the top or bottom of the tree depending on your preference. However, starting at the bottom might be more convenient, as it will give you more flexibility in choosing the plug location.
Wrap the lights around the tree using an alternating weave pattern. Go over one branch then under the next branch, and so on. As you wrap the lights, be sure to vary the amount of space between the lights and the center of the tree to more evenly distribute the lights.
3. Wrap Lights Around Some Of The Smaller Branches
Occasionally wrap the lights around some of the smaller branches. This will ensure that there is plenty of lighting near the tree's exterior.
4. Occasionally Step Back And Look For Gaps
Every once in a while, plug the lights in, take a step back, and evaluate your progress. If there are any gaps, go back and change the weave to fill them in.
How Many Lights Do You Need For A 6 Foot Christmas Tree?
Lowe's recommends 400 to 700 lights for Christmas trees between 6 and 7 feet tall. In general, a Christmas tree should have approximately 100 lights per foot and a half of tree height. But, of course, you can always deviate from this rule of thumb to suit your personal preference.
Click here to see these Christmas lights on Amazon.
What Is Used To Flock Christmas Trees?
Flocking refers to the act of lightly dusting a Christmas tree with a powdery, snowy-looking substance. Some people opt to flock their Christmas tree to achieve a more wintry aesthetic.
There is a variety of things that can be used to flock a Christmas tree, from coconut to soap shavings. In general, anything that is small, white, and flakey can theoretically be used to achieve this effect. However, artificial snow sprays have become very popular, and these are undoubtedly the best option.
Sprays like this one allow you easily coat your Christmas tree in artificial snow for an incredible effect.
Click here to see this artificial snow spray on Amazon.
Can You Flock A Pre-Lit Christmas Tree?
If you have a pre-lit Christmas tree, you might be wondering if flocking is an option. As a matter of fact, it is! You can flock a pre-lit tree in the same way as you would any other Christmas tree. If you're flocking a pre-lit tree, you'll simply add a step at the end—wiping off any light bulbs that got covered by the spray in the process. Just use your finger, a tissue, or a cloth to remove any excess spray from the bulbs.
In Closing
We hope this guide has helped you better understand the process of fluffing a Christmas tree. If you implement these tips, you'll have the best-looking Christmas tree in town!
For some tips on sprucing up your garage for the Christmas season, check out this guide: How To Hang Christmas Lights Around The Garage Door
Take a look at this guide for some exterior Christmas decor inspiration: 15 Christmas Porch Decorating Ideas [With Pictures]