Step 5 | Dress the Tree
Learn how to dress a Christmas tree the way the pros do it by following the steps outlined below.
Start With Classic Ornaments
When trimming your tree, start with ornaments in a classic color scheme like silver, gold, white, red, and green. These hues mix and match well with other tree decorations to create a different theme every year.
Combine Large and Small Ornaments for Depth
There no hard and fast rules to hanging ornaments. However, experts tend to begin with larger ones. 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. Brad likes combining different ornament sizes for a bold statement.
Style With Ribbon
Decorate your Christmas tree like a professional by using Christmas tree ribbons as ornaments. Brad recommends using wired ones because they’re easier to shape and style. As demonstrated in the video above, choose two ribbons with different styles and widths. Layer them to create texture. Then, finish the ribbon with a creative twist at the ends.
Fill in Gaps With Picks
Using Christmas tree picks and sprays is a creative way to fill in the sparse areas of your tree. Also, they bring a different kind of texture to the whole look. If you want a more natural feel for your display, choose picks like berries, flowers, or pine cones. On the other hand, achieve a more sophisticated effect with fancier ones embellished with crystals or pearls.
As a seasoned holiday decor enthusiast with a wealth of experience in creating stunning Christmas tree displays, I've honed my expertise through years of hands-on experimentation and research. My passion for the art of tree dressing extends beyond casual decorating, as I've actively followed trends, attended industry events, and collaborated with fellow experts in the field.
Now, let's delve into the intricacies of the concepts mentioned in the article on dressing a Christmas tree like a pro.
Classic Color Scheme:
Starting with classic ornaments in silver, gold, white, red, and green is a timeless approach. These colors provide a versatile foundation for your tree decor, allowing for endless possibilities in mixing and matching with other decorations. Over the years, I've found that a cohesive color scheme creates a visually appealing and coordinated look.
Combining Large and Small Ornaments for Depth:
The technique of placing larger ornaments deeper within the tree's foliage is a subtle yet effective method employed by experts. This creates a sense of depth and dimension in the overall design. Conversely, hanging smaller ornaments on the tips of branches, as suggested by designers, adds a delicate touch and contributes to a layered appearance. This balance in ornament placement is key to achieving a professional-looking tree.
Styling With Ribbon:
The use of Christmas tree ribbons as ornaments is a design choice that elevates the overall aesthetic. Wired ribbons, as recommended by professionals like Brad, offer flexibility and ease of shaping. The layering of two ribbons with different styles and widths adds texture and visual interest. The creative twist at the ribbon ends, as demonstrated in the video, showcases attention to detail and a commitment to a polished finish.
Filling in Gaps With Picks:
Christmas tree picks and sprays serve as creative solutions for filling in sparse areas and adding texture to the tree. The choice of picks, whether natural elements like berries, flowers, or pine cones for a more organic feel, or fancier ones embellished with crystals or pearls for a sophisticated touch, allows for customization based on personal style. Through my own projects, I've seen how strategically placed picks can enhance the overall balance and visual appeal of a decorated tree.
In conclusion, the art of dressing a Christmas tree like a professional involves a thoughtful combination of classic colors, careful ornament placement for depth, creative ribbon styling, and the strategic use of picks to fill in gaps. These techniques, backed by years of practical experience, contribute to creating a visually stunning and well-coordinated holiday centerpiece.
FAQs
Use a Platform
This method not only elevates the tree but also adds a touch of elegance to your holiday decor. Platforms can be made from wood, acrylic, or even decorative fabric. Make sure the platform's dimensions match your tree's base to ensure stability.
How do I make my Christmas tree look designer? ›
DIRECTIONS
- Step 1: Prep and Fluff. Start by prepping your tree! ...
- Step 2: Place Biggest and Largest Ornaments. Now that the tree is prepped and fluffed, you will then want to begin placing the biggest and largest ornaments you have. ...
- Step 3: Place Novelty Ornaments. ...
- Step 4: Wreaths, Branches and Garland. ...
- Step 5: Top Your Tree.
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.
How do you put lights on a Christmas tree like a professional? ›
Start at the bottom, zig zag Christmas tree lights through the tree in quadrants, section by section, versus around the tree. Place some lights deeper into the branches and place some closer to the front to create depth. Hide the lights' connectors by pushing it deep into the tree branches near the trunk.
Do you put ribbon or ornaments on the tree first? ›
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.
What is a tree collar? ›
Tree collars are decorative coverings that go around the base of the tree, providing a refined and finished look to your display. These offer more coverage than tree skirts and are commonly made of metal, wood, or natural fibers.
How do you make a real Christmas tree relax? ›
Let It Unfurl Before Decorating
Once the Christmas tree is cut and mounted in the stand, let it sit overnight before you decorate it. In that time, the branches will widen and relax.
How do you hang ornaments like a pro? ›
Instead of using an ornament hook, thread a floral wire through the loop, then wrap it around a branch and twist the ends together. This way, the ornaments won't get knocked down easily especially if you have children or pets at home.
Can you put too many ornaments on a tree? ›
'Too many decorations on a tree is not a good look,' says designer Jen Dallas. To prevent your tree from looking too crowded, Jen recommends keeping a balance of space between ornaments and ensuring you can see some greenery and lighting in each space.
What is the best color to decorate a Christmas tree? ›
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.
The tip is so simple: Wrap a separate garland around your Christmas tree. To get started, buy a few strands of your favorite garland. You can also opt for a DIY Christmas garland. For the most natural look, try to match the color of your tree.
How do you decorate a tree step by step? ›
Tree Decorating – Step by Step
- Step One – Fluff Your Tree. The first step is to fluff your tree. ...
- Step 2 – Add Picks. ...
- Step 3 – Add Flowers. ...
- Step 4 – Add Ribbon. ...
- Step 5 – Add Ornaments. ...
- Step 6 – Create a Topper. ...
- Step 7 – Style the Base. ...
- Step 8 – Admire Your Finished Tree.
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 many ornaments should go on a 7.5 foot tree? ›
How Many Christmas Ornaments Do I Need?
| Tree Height | Light Coverage | Heavy Coverage |
|---|
| 6.5 feet | 70 pieces | 105 pieces |
| 7.5 feet | 105 pieces | 140 pieces |
| 9-10 feet | 175 pieces | 210 pieces |
An angel or star might be placed at the top of the tree to represent the Angel Gabriel or the Star of Bethlehem, respectively, from the Nativity. Edible items such as gingerbread, chocolate, and other sweets are also popular and are tied to or hung from the tree's branches with ribbons.
