How to Flock a Christmas Tree
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There’s just something magical about a snow-covered Christmas tree. Even if you don’t live in an area that gets considerable (or any) snowfall, the snowy branches of a fragrant fir instantly bring storybook vibes straight out of the pages of a Currier and Ives print. In makes sense, then, that you’d want to pluck that holiday-ready look and bring it right into your living room—without all the melting snow, of course.
That’s where a flocked Christmas tree comes in. An artificial (or real) tree that’s been covered in fluffy, snowy material, flocked trees are a popular choice for anyone looking to bring a bit of whimsy and natural appeal to their holiday decor scheme. They can be kept bare or decked out with ornaments and glowing lights; either way, the end result is a Christmas tree that’s classic, cozy, and nostalgic.
While you can buy a pre-flocked artificial tree, creating your own is also fun—and what’s Christmas without something handmade to display? Below, we’re outlining exactly how to create your own flocked Christmas tree, as well as tips and tricks you should keep in mind as you play Jack Frost with your fir.
Tips For Creating a DIY Flocked Christmas Tree
- Take it outdoors. Creating a DIY flocked Christmas tree will be messy, so this is a project best done outdoors, or in a basement or garage. If you must dress your tree indoors, make sure to lay out a tarp before starting. While the majority of flocking powders are made with safe, organic materials, it’s always a good idea to complete this project somewhere with ample ventilation.
- Go in with a game plan. Like many DIY projects, flocking your Christmas tree can be customized to exactly the look you’re envisioning. Want a full-on snowstorm? Make sure to apply your flocking thick and dramatic to lend the effect of a blizzard that’s just passed through. Prefer a subtle frost? Lightly dust just the tips of the branches for a less-is-more look.
- Experiment before committing. We’ve outlined a few different methods for flocking below, and there are other strategies out there as well. In order to get the look you most desire, test a few versions out on back or interior branches before committing to the whole tree.
- Save your decorations for last. It might go without saying, but you should flock your tree before adding any decorations to its branches, including lights. That also means you should avoid purchasing a pre-lit tree to use for this project. We’ve included options below for pre-lit trees that are also pre-flocked.
- Think outside the forest. You can flock any number of holiday decorations besides your tree, too! Think: garland, wreaths, and more.
How to Flock a Christmas Tree With Flocking Powder
Supplies
- A faux or real Christmas tree
- Spray bottle with water
- Flocking powder
- A tarp or old sheet to protect the floor
- A mesh sifter or strainer
Instructions
- Before starting, make sure to set up your tree and fluff any branches, as you won’t be able to bend and mold them as well after flocking. If you’re using a faux tree, you can keep the different tiers separate while flocking for easier access to all the branches.
- Working in small sections, spray the branches thoroughly with warm water until they’re moist but not dripping.
- Pour the flocking powder into a fine mesh sifter before sprinkling it over the wet branches, making sure to coat them evenly and from root to tip (if desired).
- Continue covering the branches with flocking powder in sections until the desired effect is reached.
- Seal the flocking powder on the branches with one final mist of water over the entire tree.
- Allow the tree to dry for at least 24 hours (or more, depending on the thickness of your flocking) before carefully adding lights or ornaments.
- You can refresh your flocking years by brushing off any powder that has loosened in storage before following the same steps to add more powder.
Alternative Ways to Flock Your Tree
There are other methods of flocking your tree with different materials. Some of the most common alternatives include spray snow, which will lend a more 2D effect, or cornstarch mixed with glue or wallpaper paste, which can be painted onto the branches with a paintbrush.
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Alyssa Longobucco
Alyssa is a freelance writer, editor, and stylist with a background in interior, food, and lifestyle content. The recent recipient of an interior design certification, she has over a decade of experience in the digital and magazine industry helping readers digest design trends and providing actionable expert advice for creating a home and life they love.
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