Decorating Christmas Tree Ideas Faje

Tips to Make an Artificial Christmas Tree Look Real

One of the most common complaints about artificial Christmas trees is that they can appear fake. Fortunately, Christmas tree designs have come a long way in recent years and now look more authentic than ever before. Read on to discover tips and tricks for making even the most unconvincing artificial Christmas trees appear real.

9 Tips for Making a Faux Tree Look Real

1.) Consider the Tree's Overall Shape and Needles

To get the look of a live tree, start by comparing the overall shape of the artificial tree you're considering to that of a real tree. Choosing a tree in a shape that resembles the profile of a live tree will help to create a more convincing Christmas tree. Be sure to check the needles, too, and choose a tree that contains at least some PE needles. To learn more about artificial Christmas tree needles and shape, check out our Artificial Christmas Tree Buying Guide.

realistic looking artificial christmas tree

flocked artificial christmas tree

2.) Flock It

Flocking will give your tree a white, snow-covered appearance. If you end up with an artificial tree that has fake-looking needles, flocking the tips of the branches is a great way to help soften the effect. You may choose to purchase apre-flocked Christmas tree or you can buy a can of fake snow and do it yourself. For a more natural look, concentrate on spraying areas where snow would realistically hit the tree, like the top of each branch.

3.) Fluff the Branches

The first step in decorating any Christmas tree is fluffing the branches. Right out of the box, an artificial tree's branches will look a little squashed and underwhelming. To make your tree appear fuller, spend some time fluffing each branch and fanning out the tips. Start at the bottom and work your way around the tree, finishing at the top. When you are done, take a step back and adjust any areas where you see holes or large spaces.

4.) Tuck In Pine Cones & Berries

Natural looking elements, like pine cones and berries, are a perfect addition for the holidays and can help to dress up an artificial tree. Strategically place these decorations to cover bare spots and help your tree appear more lush. You can also opt for a Christmas tree already enriched with pine cones and berries as a part of its design as well.

close up of artificial christmas tree with pine cones

decorated christmas tree with red ribbon

5.) Decorate With Ribbon, Garland, Tinsel, and Sprays

Ribbon, garland, tinsel, and sprays can work wonders at concealing unnatural spaces between branches. For an expertly decorated tree, tuck ribbon among the branches to create volume. Tinsel and sprays drape down in between branches, making them the ideal decoration to help disguise a sparse tree.

6.) Fill In With Ornaments

Large, eye-catching ornaments can be the best way to fill in spaces and disguise gaps in your tree. Hang the largest ornaments first and fill in with smaller ornaments to add depth and symmetry.

7.) Cover the Base

An exposed tree stand or base not only makes a tree appear incomplete but it can also read a little cheap. A pretty tree skirt or tree collar can help to make the base of your tree a focal point rather than an eyesore. Even loosely wrapping your tree's base in a plaid blanket or colored sheet can up the overall appearance of your tree.

galvanized tree collar

gold ombre christmas tree

8.) Embrace the Fake

While most artificial trees are meant to resemble live evergreen trees, tinsel trees are meant to look over the top (in the best way possible) and are available in a variety of festive colors. Think shiny pink, red, gold, blue – the options are endless! We recommend having fun with your artificial Christmas tree and picking a color not commonly found in nature. Sure it will be obvious that it's not a real tree, but nonetheless your Christmas tree will bring a cheerful and unique holiday spirit to your space.

9.) Add an Authentic Scent

If you find yourself missing that traditional holiday scent that comes from a real tree, consider setting out pine-scented candles or air fresheners to perfume the air. You can also find pine-scented ornaments to hang in inconspicuous spots to make your artificial tree smell real. Place them in multiple spots around the tree to intensify the aroma.

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