STEP #1: Choose Your Tree

Find the perfect Christmas tree whether it be real, or artificial, pick one out that is special for you.  If you are looking for an artificial Christmas tree, browse our tree selection to find the perfect one.

Your perfect tree doesn't have to be less perfect because of the height. Who says you can’t put a 9 foot tree in a room with a 9 foot ceiling?  You sure can.  All Christmas trees have a single strand on the top.  This piece is usually at least 6 inches.  Just simply fold it in half and Voila!  You have turned your 9 foot Christmas tree into a 8.5 foot tree.

STEP #2: Set Up Your Tree

To set up your tree, you should always follow the manufacturers instructions that come in the box.  Most artificial trees come with a stand these days.  Once it is assembled you will want to shape the branches and limbs if needed.  Some of the “Just Cut” Christmas trees don’t need any fluffing at all.  If you have a real tree you will want to get a stand and set up your tree.

STEP #3: Christmas Lights

If you don't have a Pre-Lit Christmas Tree, you want to first make sure that you test your lights. Join the strings together and plug them in. Replace any dead bulbs and make sure there is no damage to any of the cords.

Once all of your Christmas lights are working, connect them together and begins placing them on your tree from the top down. Make sure to leave the socket end of the lights at the top of the tree for your tree top.

How many lights should I use?

Don't skimp out! You should use 3 100-light sets per tree foot. So if you have a 7-foot Christmas tree, you will want to buy 21 100-light sets. Don't be afraid to mix and match lights. There is no rule that says you only have to use one kind, so be creative! If you are using any novelty lights just be sure to put them on after the basic lights and evenly space them apart.

Where do I put my Christmas lights on the tree?

Arrange lights 'inside' your tree (about halfway from the tips of the branches to the trunk of the tree) as well as on the perimeter of the tree.

STEP #4: The Tree Topper

A carefully selected tree topper is one of the most important pieces.  This is something that symbolizes the spirit of Christmas.  Place that magical piece right on the top of your dazzling beauty.  Good thing you left the socket end of the lights at the top of the tree so your tree top will have something to plug into if it is electric. 

Keep in mind that just because it is a tree topper does not mean it has to go right at the top of the tree.  If you have a 7.5 foot ceiling and a 7.5 foot Christmas tree you can always put it off to the side a bit.

STEP #5: The Garland 

Start at the top and just work your way down in a spiral pattern going around and around the tree until you get to the bottom.

How much garland should I use? 

A rule of thumb is at least 9 feet of garland per foot of tree, so a 9-foot Christmas tree will need 81 feet of garland.  We recommend though to buy more to be on the safe side, if you are left with any extra you can always use it on the mantle or wreaths.

How do I place my garland?

Gently swagged garland looks more graceful than straight or diagonal lines across the tree. Deeply swagged garland is beautiful, but can only be used on large trees with open space between branches.  You can also place your garland vertically.  Just attach it  to the top of your tree (behind the tree topper) then loop it down vertically. Be sure to add some twists and turns, wiring to branches if necessary, in order to add interest and graceful curves. This technique is especially suited to ribbon.

Get creative with beaded garland - Beaded garlands can sometimes be cut up into lengths and used as tinsel to drape over branches. Be sure that if you cut the garland all the beads wont  fall off of the string. Strings knotted between each bead or styles where beads are glued in place will work for this technique. Cut garland pieces about 16 inches long, fold in half and set on a branch. Vary the lengths to get a more interesting look. This works best with garland that is very flexible and will fold easily over branches.

STEP #6: The Ornaments

To really make a statement about your Christmas tree start with the most important ornaments.  Then hang the largest ones, spacing them evenly apart.  You will then want to fill in the spaces with any medium and small sizes to balance the overall look of the tree.  Don’t forget the bottom! You can add more depth by hanging ornaments closer to the trunk.  And please use an interesting variety, there are so many fabulous ornaments for sale now so be sure to get some including icicles, teardrops, squares, triangles. A little variety can really separate your tree from the rest.

Place ornaments and other decorations 'inside' your tree as well as on the tips of branches, to add depth and interest.

STEP #7: The Tree Skirt

Once your tree is completely decorated, wrap a tree skirt around the bottom and add some wrapped presents.  You want to be sure that the skirt is big enough to cover the tree stand beneath. Also note that the skirt should not be wider than the average width of the tree branches.

Guide Expertise

ChristmasCentral.com, is a family owned and operated business founded in 1977. For over 30 years, we have established long-standing relationships with suppliers worldwide enabling us to bring our customers top quality merchandise at tremendous savings. As a result, we have become a premier online retailer.

We offer over 10,000 unique items from home décor, patio furniture to candy and much, much more!  No one can resist what has made us famous—the world’s largest inventory of unique and often hard-to-find Christmas and seasonal items. ChristmasCentral.com ships more artificial Christmas trees and holiday decorations from one location than any business in the United States.