We need to get out of our general way of thinking how to decorate a Christmas tree. When we think of how to decorate, we usually think of ornaments, maybe ribbon, possibly tinsel and of course don’t forget the tree topper. But there are such better ways to create a beautiful look for our Christmas tree. Here are the 10 Must-Have Christmas Items you should add to your tree to create an amazing look.
Must Have #1: Christmas Ribbon
You may be saying, "Mikaila, I already put ribbon on my Christmas tree", and yes, you probably do but I’m talking about more than one ribbon with more than one texture. We use ribbon to establish the whole look for our trees. In fact, we often start with our looks, find our ribbons, and design the whole tree around those ribbons.
When adding ribbon, you need more than one. You will have showstopper. This is your main, beautiful ribbon that really makes a statement. You will then need at least one more but it's even better if you can have two or three more that create the depth needed to make it stunning.
On our Wintergreen Christmas Tree, we used four ribbons. For our showstopper, we chose our White and Sage Dupoint Flower ribbon. We used it to create our Christmas topper and we cut strips and weaved them throughout the tree. Next, we layered 3 other ribbons together. These three were also cut into strips and weaved into the tree in the spaces in-between the showstopper ribbon. We wired these in and then shape them by pulling them apart to show them off and to make the ribbon dance in the tree. Once you have done this, you can really start to see the Christmas tree take shape.
(See our video below on one way to create Christmas bows for your tree topper.)
Must Have #2: Lights
It may seem like a no-brainer, but lights are key. If your Christmas tree doesn’t have lights, you must add them. The lights are so important and create the magic of Christmas on every tree. If some of the light are out, make sure you replace them. You can also add lights around the stem of the Christmas tree to really make it glow. The more lights the better.
When choosing lights, the small ones are best. I know the big bulbs can be very cute but you don't want that to be the thing highlighted on your Christmas tree. Also, be careful of the tint they have. You want to have warm lights that have a bit of a yellow glow. The blue tinted lights are more harsh and do not create the same homey feel you want in your Christmas tree.
Multi-color lights are fun but are better for a more playful tree. If you're going for a beautiful designer look, stick to white lights. They will make your items shimmer in the Christmas tree and show off your best assets.
Must Have #3: Stems
We use a variety of stems in a Christmas tree. You want to start with them at the top. You want them to shoot out to create a full look on the top. These stems along with the bow create a fun topper. They make your eyes extend up making the tree look taller and more elegant.
Next, take your stems and place them throughout your Christmas tree. The stems should extend past the Christmas tree limbs and really pop out at you. These create depth for the tree and add color. In our Wintergreen Christmas Tree example, we used a variety of green and white stems along with some pine tree stems that just look like an extension of the tree. You want to use a variety of stems that are different textures and/or shapes. These stems can even be regular pine stems that look like they are limbs from the Christmas tree. They create the fullness of the tree.
In our All the Glitz Christmas Tree, we added this glittery gold leaf. The shape is unique and it adds more color.
Must Have #4: Balls
You always need some ornaments to ground the Christmas tree and balls are great for this. You need to find a smaller size ball to tuck deep in the tree. This creates the depth and really makes the tree more three dimensional. Place them closer to the stem of the tree rather at the outer ends of the limbs. You really only need one or two colors and styles for this but you can use more. These are very basic balls and shouldn't cost a lot. They are not very visible but just create a background for the tree.
Must Have #5: Pinecones
When you think of a pine tree, you think of pinecones. Unfortunately, many of our Christmas trees don't have any so we need to add them. They not only add to the theme of a Christmas tree but they are a unique shape that is a great addition to a tree. We used pinecone picks but regular pinecones will work too. We usually use some basic ones that can just sit in the tree but we also will use some that draped down. You also can find colored ones to add in. In our Wintergreen Christmas Tree, we used a beautiful green pinecone pick. Have fun with it and choose a couple styles if you can.
Must Have #6: Flowers
It's rare for us not to incorporate a flower into our trees. They create such beauty and really jump out of the tree. Find a beautiful flower ideally with some glitz on it to really makes a statement. The glitz will shimmer in the lights of your Christmas tree and create a magical look.
In our Wintergreen Christmas Tree, we chose a white, glittery poinsettia because it coordinates with the ribbon. The shimmer on it makes it stand out in the Christmas tree and you can really see it pop.
Must Have #7: Christmas Bells
Bells are a great item to add to any Christmas tree. They are festive and fun and make a real statement. You can use a color that coordinates or even just standard gold bells. They also come in a variety of sizes. Larger ones are a great way to make a statement with less but small ones can be spread more throughout.
For our Wintergreen Christmas Tree, we chose a large green with gold jingle bell. The size of it makes it fill in larger holes in the tree and reduces how many you need. In our Christmas Tradition Tree, we used smaller gold bells but we used more. Some were clusters of bells while others were singles but we spread them throughout the Christmas tree.
Must Have #8: 3D Ornaments
When choosing your ornaments, try to find ones that pop out of the tree and have unusual shapes. Snowflakes are often a great choice for this. You want to find one that is 3D rather than flat.
We chose a 3D white glittery snowflake for our Wintergreen Christmas Tree. These can be used at the end of the limbs and tucked into the tree as well to fill holes in the tree. These won't go as deep as the balls in the tree but will hang closer in between the stem of the tree and the end of the limbs.
Must Have #9: Unexpected Item
It's fun to add something unexpected and figurines are a great example of this. You can add gnomes, stockings, deer, birds, etc.
On our All the Glitz Christmas Tree, we used this glittery reindeer. We tucked them throughout the tree. On our North Pole Tree we used cute packages. Again, you won’t use many of these, but they can be placed in the holes and create a beautiful display.
Must Have #10: Ornaments
Obviously your Christmas tree needs ornaments. These ornaments will go on the outer layer of the limbs. These ornaments can fit the theme of the tree but also would include any family ornaments.
When choosing new ornaments to add, they should be fun and playful. They should be things that you are drawn to and show a bit of your style and personality.
On our Wintergreen Christmas Tree we added a 3D layered white Christmas tree. These hang on the outer part of the limb to create that last layer of the tree. On our All the Glitz Christmas Tree we used some metal deer and moose heads. In our North Pole Christmas Tree we used cute mittens. It can really be anything you like that completes the look for your Christmas tree.
Conclusion
Now you're ready to create your beautiful designer Christmas tree. Watch our video below for step-by-step instructions on exactly how we did our North Pole Christmas Tree. And as always, email us for more info or with any questions.
WATCH OUR VIDEO ON HOW WE CREATED OUR NORTH POLE TREE HERE!
Christmas Must-Haves featured in this post.
The Author: Mikaila Sue
Hi, I’m Mikaila Sue and I live in Castle Rock, Colorado with my husband and kids, my dog, cat, chickens and rabbits. I began working with my mom, Sue, in home and Christmas decorating during my childhood. As an adult, I did various other jobs and now do home design full-time and my mom and I still work together. I love designing Christmas trees and decorating homes. My mom and I create beautiful Christmas and year-round decorating ideas for everyone.
Join me as I show you various design ideas and fun options on how to decorate your house. And sign up for our newsletter to receive more inspiration right in your mailbox. Welcome to the Seasons family!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ribbon will I need?
It honestly really depends on how tall and full your tree is and how wide the ribbon is. Also, ribbons vary on how much is on a role so always look at the length when getting ribbons.
How many different stems should I use?
This can vary but you need at least 3-4 to create enough variety. These will highlight your theme and create texture that your tree needs. If you are adding pines and pinecone picks, it will be more. Most of our trees have about 6 or more.
Do I need to decorate the backside of my tree if it's hidden?
Though it may not be seen, you still should decorate it a bit. It's rare for you to not be able to see any of the back sides since the tree is round. You don't have to do it as full but you will still want to have stems shooting out, ribbons coming around and ornaments tucked in a bit. These items can still be seen from the front since they sort of jolt out. Also, if you only decorate the front, the tree will be heavier on one side and will lean forward.
I have items that won't stay in the tree. What should I do?
Some items are hard to make stay where you want them. If this happens, wire or zip-tie them to the branch and they should stay put.