IN THIS ARTICLE
A beautifully decorated Christmas tree doesn’t happen by accident. The secret is following the right decorating order. When lights, ribbon, ornaments and toppers are added in the proper sequence, your tree looks fuller, more balanced and professionally finished. Whether you’re decorating your first tree or looking to refresh your holiday style, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process.
Tools & Supplies
Tools
Supplies
- Christmas tree lights
- Ornaments
- Ribbon
- Garland
- Tree topper
- Tree skirt or tree collar
Before You Start
Before decorating, decide on a theme or color palette. Popular options include:
- Traditional red and green
- Gold and champagne
- Rustic woodland
- Winter white
- Multicolor family-style décor
Limiting yourself to two or three primary colors often creates the most cohesive look.
Safety First
✅ Use indoor-rated lights on indoor trees
✅ Follow manufacturer limits for connected light strands
✅ Use a surge protector when possible
✅ Inspect cords before decorating
✅ Keep plugs accessible
❌ Don’t overload outlets
❌ Don’t use damaged cords
❌ Don’t exceed the maximum number of strings listed by the manufacturer
How to Decorate a Christmas Tree
1 Fluff the Tree (Optional)
If you have an artificial tree, start by shaping the branches.
Why It Matters
Fluffing fills gaps and creates a fuller appearance before decorations are added.
How to Fluff
- Start near the trunk.
- Separate branch tips.
- Spread branches outward.
- Work section by section from bottom to top.
PRO TIP FROM ACE
2 Add the Christmas Lights
Lighting should always be installed before ornaments and ribbon.
Best Indoor Tree Lights
- Warm white LEDs for a classic look
- Cool white LEDs for modern décor
- Multicolor lights for traditional holiday themes
How to Add Lights
- Plug in the lights and test them first.
- Start near the top.
- Work downward in sections.
- Wrap lights both deep inside and near branch tips.
Placing some lights deeper inside the tree creates dimension and a fuller glow.
PRO TIP FROM ACE
3 Add Ribbon or Garland
Once the lights are installed, add larger decorative elements.
Ribbon Tips
- Allow ribbon to flow naturally through branches.
- Create gentle loops instead of wrapping tightly.
- Space ribbon evenly around the tree.
Garland Tips
- Start at the top.
- Work downward in a spiral pattern.
- Leave room for ornaments.
Ribbon generally goes on before ornaments because it occupies larger visual areas.
4 Hang Ornaments
Ornaments provide personality and visual interest.
Decorating Strategy
- Large Ornaments First
Use larger ornaments to establish balance throughout the tree. - Medium Ornaments Second
Fill major gaps between focal points. - Small Ornaments Last
Add detail and fill remaining spaces. - Create Depth
Place some ornaments closer to the trunk and others near branch tips.
This layering effect makes the tree appear fuller.
5 Add the Tree Topper
The topper serves as the finishing focal point.
Popular options include:
- Stars
- Angels
- Snowflakes
- Bows
- Decorative picks
PRO TIP FROM ACE
6 Finish with a Tree Skirt or Tree Collar
The final step is covering the tree stand.
Tree Skirt
Best For
- Traditional decorating styles
- Cozy holiday themes
- Soft textures
Benefits
✅ Covers cords and stands
✅ Easy installation
✅ Wide variety of patterns
Tree Collar
Best For
- Modern holiday décor
- Farmhouse themes
- Cleaner appearance
Benefits
✅ Structured look
✅ Hides tree stands neatly
✅ Creates a finished designer appearance
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tree Skirt | Tree Collar |
| Style | Traditional | Modern |
| Installation | Simple | Simple |
| Appearance | Soft & layered | Clean & structured |
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
Problem: Tree Looks Sparse
Solution: Add more depth by placing ornaments and lights closer to the trunk.
Problem: Too Many Decorations
Solution: Remove some ornaments to allow lights and ribbon to stand out.
Problem: Uneven Lighting
Solution: Spread lights more evenly and fill dark areas before adding additional decorations.
Common Mistakes
❌ Skipping the fluffing process
❌ Adding ornaments before lights
❌ Grouping all large ornaments together
❌ Ignoring color balance
❌ Overloading electrical outlets
Maintenance Throughout the Season
To keep your tree looking its best:
- Check light connections weekly
- Reposition ornaments if needed
- Vacuum fallen needles from real trees
- Inspect cords periodically
- Turn lights off when leaving home
When to Call a Pro
Most tree decorating projects are DIY friendly.
However, consider professional help if:
- The tree exceeds ladder-safe decorating heights
- Electrical outlets need modification
- Lighting issues involve household wiring
- Large commercial displays are being installed
Never attempt electrical repairs on household wiring simply to support holiday decorations.
FAQ
What is the correct order to decorate a Christmas tree?
Fluff branches, add lights, install ribbon or garland, hang ornaments, place the topper and finish with a tree skirt or collar.
How many lights should I use?
The amount varies by tree height and desired brightness. Follow manufacturer recommendations for your light sets.
Should ribbon go before ornaments?
Yes. Ribbon and garland generally go on before ornaments because they occupy larger portions of the tree.
What’s better: a tree skirt or tree collar?
Neither is universally better. Tree skirts tend to create a traditional look, while tree collars provide a cleaner, more modern finish.
Can I connect multiple light strands together?
Only follow the maximum connection limits specified by the manufacturer.