How to decorate a Christmas tree
For many of us, it doesn't feel like Christmas has arrived until the Christmas tree is up and decorated. Whichever type of tree you choose; real or artificial, cut or pot-grown, large or small, you’ll want it to be a seasonal showstopper.
Whether trimming your tree is a family activity, or something you prefer to do by yourself, we're here to help you make your tree look its best with our tips and ideas on how to decorate a Christmas tree. We want to help you create the right look for your home this holiday, whatever your festive style.
So turn up the volume on your favourite Christmas songs, stock up on mince pies and grab the baubles... it’s time to start decorating the Christmas tree.
You might need:
- A Christmas tree - not sure what type you’re looking for? Read our handy buying guides to real and artificial Christmas trees to help you choose your perfect tree.
- A tree stand or pot - this might not be necessary if you opt for an artificial tree or a potted real tree, so check if your tree is freestanding or not before buying
- A tree skirt - for the base of your tree
- String Christmas lights – an essential way to bring your tree to life. We love the 120 LED lights available in ice white or warm white. With 8 light functions, these lights have a setting suitable for any Christmas occasion. Learn more about them and other festive lighting with our helpful advice. You might not need extra lights if you have a pre-lit artificial tree, so be sure to check.
- Christmas tree light fixings - great for keeping string lights securely attached to tree branches
- Tree decorations – from baubles to bead chains – we have something for every style. Choose from assorted multipacks for a coordinated look or individual pieces for a more personalised mix.
- Christmas decoration hooks - to help hang decorations from tree branches
- A tree topper – the only way to finish your Christmas tree
- Timer or Smart Home socket - ideal for turning your Christmas lights on and off remotely if regular access to the socket is difficult
- A step stool or work platform - to safely reach the top of the tree, if necessary
Safety first
- Don’t climb on your tree or overstretch trying to decorate it. If you can’t reach – ask someone to help you.
- If using old, filament bulb Christmas lights, check for any damage to the plug, the cable, the bulbs and bulb holders before turning on Christmas lights.
- Plug lights into the closest available socket to the tree. This minimises trailing cables which can be a trip hazard.
How to select a location for the Christmas tree
Choose where you want your tree to stand before you buy it, this ensures that you pick a tree that is perfect for your space.
Maybe you use the same place every year, or perhaps you’ve got a tree for your living room, kitchen and even your hallway. Wherever you place your tree, make sure it has enough space.
Give yourself a clear walkway past your tree to avoid it being in a place where people might squeeze past it, knocking your decorations to the floor. And avoid standing it near direct heat (for example, close to a radiator or fire). This is especially important if it’s a real Christmas tree, as this warmth will dry out the tree, resulting in dropping needles and sagging branches.
Step 1
Place your real tree securely in a stand or pot. Artificial ones come with a base so they’re ready to go. Make sure you put your tree on a flat even surface to make sure it's stable.
When decorating an artificial tree, be sure to fluff its branches before adding any decorations. This adds volume and helps it look as bushy and full as possible.
Step 2
Lie the string lights on the floor and switch them on.
Checking that they work now should prevent you from decorating your tree only to later find that they don’t work. So whether you’ve bought new lights or are using an old set, be sure to check that they work first.
Step 3
Light your tree from the top and work your way down.
Wrap the lights around the tree, spreading them out evenly as you go, this will give your tree a soft glow. Plug them in and switch on once they’ve been arranged.
Step 4
Add your decorations.
Work your way from the bottom of the tree to the top and hang the larger baubles and decorations lower down for a more balanced look.
The heavier ones are best placed at the back of the branch, closer to the trunk to avoid the branch sagging.
Start with decorations of the same colour first to create a colour foundation, then arrange the more ornate and glitzy decorations for maximum impact.
Top tip: Personalise decorations
Make your tree more personal by creating your own decorations. Simply use single colour baubles and a coloured marker. Ask your friends and family to write Christmas messages that you can then hang on your tree.
Step 5
Place your tree topper on the top to finish your Christmas tree off perfectly.
Use a step stool or work platform to safely reach the top of the tree if required.
Step 6
Cover up unsightly tree stands and cables with a tree skirt or even some spare tinsel around the tree’s base.
And lastly, place your beautifully wrapped Christmas presents at the bottom of your tree ready for Christmas morning. Check out our range of Christmas wrapping paper to coordinate your presents with your tree for a picture perfect look.