Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret to decorating a Christmas tree? ›

Combine Large and Small Ornaments for Depth

They tuck them deeper within the foliage to add depth. As a result, they achieve a beautiful, layered look. On the other hand, smaller ornaments look best when hung on the tips of the branches. Designers do this to create a draping effect.

When adding ornaments, just like the lights, don't forget to place them deep within the tree too. This adds depth to the look of the tree and it also balances the weight on the tree boughs. I also tend to hang larger, heavier ornaments further into the tree to prevent the boughs from sagging and looking sad.

Stick to two (definitely no more than three) colours to keep the look contained rather than cluttered. Also think about materials and texture: plush velvet baubles lends itself well to a luxe tree, while paper and wooden decorations are ideal for any Nordic-inspired or minimalist trees.

We recommend putting the ribbons first especially if you need to anchor them deep into the branches. Ornaments should go last to avoid bumping and breaking them as you decorate. If using Christmas lights, make sure to string them first before adding your ribbons.

If you're using tinsel, this is the time to put it on your tree - always before your decorations and ornaments to avoid the tinsel snagging. Tinsel is a simple and easy way to add colour to your tree, but it's best to use it sparingly.

Classic Red and White

Red and green is an iconic Christmas pairing and a good go-to color scheme if you're more of a traditionalist. However, simply removing green from the equation and relying solely on red and white immediately gives the festive palette a fresh, contemporary update and Scandi-chic look.

As you might have guessed, the number of decorations will increase the more significant your tree is. A 6 foot Christmas tree will need at least 128 pieces, a 7 foot Christmas tree will need at least 196 decorations, and an 8 foot Christmas tree will need a minimum of 212.

Try finding ornaments that are clear or lightly colored, so that when they hang in front of a lightbulb the color can shine through. This will highlight all the different colors in your light string and make the colors dance all over the room—especially when the lights are out.

Classic combinations like gold and burgundy, silver and blue, or white and silver can give a luxurious feel. Invest in Quality Ornaments: Select a few high-quality, statement ornaments rather than filling the tree with lots of cheap ones.

In what order do you decorate your Christmas tree once you get your tree home? Lights first, so that you know if they're working and will cover the areas that you want lighted. Then you can place your ornaments near to the best lighting for each particular ornament.

How to decorate for Christmas without being tacky? ›

Yes, you should put Christmas lights on before ornaments.

This is the most common and efficient way to decorate your Christmas tree.

Whichever you choose, be sure to trim the tree in garland after the lights and before the ornaments. Then, you can tuck the ornaments in and around the garland for a full, layered look.