How to make a sparse Christmas tree look good: Tips and tricks for festive decorating

By Phil Houseley

When it comes to decorating for Christmas, the tree is often the centrepiece of the room. However, not everyone has the space or budget for a full and lush tree. If you find yourself with a sparse Christmas tree, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to make it look good.

Firstly, consider adding more lights to your tree. This will help to fill in any gaps and create a warm and inviting glow. You can also use a mix of different types of lights, such as fairy lights and larger bulbs, to add depth and texture to your tree. Another option is to use garlands or tinsel to add volume and sparkle to your tree. By layering these decorations around the branches, you can create the illusion of a fuller tree.

Understanding Sparse Christmas Trees

Sparse Christmas Trees

If you have a sparse Christmas tree, don’t worry! Sparse trees can look great with the right decorations. A sparse tree is one that has fewer branches and needles than a full tree, which can make it more challenging to decorate. But with a few tips, you can turn your sparse tree into a beautiful holiday centerpiece.

One thing to keep in mind when decorating a sparse tree is to use lightweight decorations. Heavy ornaments can weigh down the branches, making the tree look even sparser. Instead, opt for lightweight ornaments that won’t pull the branches down.

Another tip is to use garland or ribbon to fill in the gaps between the branches. This can help to create a fuller look, and it’s a great way to add some colour and texture to your tree. You can also use tinsel or other types of garland to add sparkle and shine.

If you’re struggling to fill in the gaps, consider using artificial foliage or greenery to add some extra branches to your tree. You can tuck these in between the existing branches to create a fuller look.

Finally, don’t forget about the lights! Lights can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, and they can also help to fill in the gaps between the branches. Consider using warm white or coloured lights to add some extra sparkle to your tree.

With these tips, you can turn your sparse Christmas tree into a beautiful holiday centerpiece that will wow your guests.

Choosing the Right Decorations

When it comes to decorating a sparse Christmas tree, choosing the right decorations is key to creating a beautiful and cohesive look. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect decorations for your tree:

Selecting Colours

Start by selecting a colour scheme for your tree. Consider the colours of your room and existing decor, as well as any themes or moods you want to evoke. Classic red and green, elegant gold and silver, or modern black and white are all great options. Once you’ve chosen your colours, stick to them throughout your tree decorations to create a cohesive look.

Choosing Shapes

When selecting decorations for a sparse tree, it’s important to choose shapes that will fill in the gaps and create a full appearance. Round ornaments, teardrop-shaped ornaments, and floral picks are all great options. Consider varying the sizes and shapes of your decorations to add visual interest and depth to your tree.

Considering Sizes

Finally, consider the size of your decorations in relation to the size of your tree. Large decorations can overwhelm a sparse tree, while small decorations can get lost in the gaps. Aim for a variety of sizes to create balance and visual interest. Additionally, consider using larger decorations towards the bottom of the tree and smaller decorations towards the top to create a sense of depth and dimension.

By following these tips, you can select the perfect decorations to make your sparse Christmas tree look beautiful and full.

Lighting Techniques

When it comes to decorating a sparse Christmas tree, lighting is key. Here are some lighting techniques that you can use to make your tree look great:

LED Lights

LED lights are a great option for decorating a sparse Christmas tree. They come in a variety of colours, so you can choose the ones that best match your tree and decor. They also use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, so they’re more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run.

Fairy Lights

Fairy lights are another great option for decorating a sparse Christmas tree. They’re small and delicate, which makes them perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your tree. They also come in a variety of colours and styles, so you can choose the ones that best match your tree and decor.

Candle Lights

If you’re looking for a more traditional look, candle lights are a great option. They’re designed to look like real candles, but they’re much safer and more convenient to use. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can choose the ones that best match your tree and decor. Just be sure to use them safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Placement of Decorations

When decorating a sparse Christmas tree, the placement of decorations is key to making it look good. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Balancing Ornaments

To create a balanced look, start by placing larger ornaments at the bottom of the tree and gradually work your way up with smaller ones. This will help to create a visually pleasing tapering effect. You can also use different sized ornaments to add depth and interest to your tree.

Filling Gaps

If your tree has gaps, don’t worry! You can use garlands, tinsel, or ribbon to fill in the spaces. You can also use smaller ornaments or even artificial snow to create a fuller look. Be sure to step back and take a look at your tree from different angles to ensure that it looks balanced and proportionate.

Remember, the key to making a sparse Christmas tree look good is to be creative with your decorations and to have fun with it!

Incorporating Greenery

If you have a sparse Christmas tree, incorporating greenery can help fill in the gaps and add volume. Here are some ways to do it:

Adding Foliage

One way to add foliage is by using artificial branches or sprigs. Simply tuck them into the empty spaces on your tree, making sure they are evenly distributed. You can also use real branches, such as pine or fir, to give your tree a natural look and scent.

Using Garlands

Garlands are another great way to add greenery to your tree. Drape them around the branches, weaving them in and out to create a full, lush look. You can use traditional green garlands, or mix it up with coloured or metallic options to match your decor.

Remember, the key to incorporating greenery is to distribute it evenly throughout the tree. This will help create a cohesive look and make your sparse tree look fuller and more vibrant.

Adding Finishing Touches

Once you have the sparse Christmas tree arranged to your liking, it’s time to add the finishing touches to make it look its best. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

Using Tree Toppers

A tree topper is a great way to add some height and visual interest to your sparse Christmas tree. You can choose from a variety of options, including stars, angels, and bows. If you’re feeling creative, you could even make your own tree topper using materials like ribbon or paper.

When selecting a tree topper, consider the size and shape of your tree. A larger topper may overwhelm a small tree, while a smaller topper may get lost on a larger tree. You should also think about the overall theme of your tree and choose a topper that complements it.

Incorporating Tree Skirts

A tree skirt is another way to add some style to your sparse Christmas tree. Not only do tree skirts hide the tree stand, but they can also add some colour and texture to your tree. You can choose from a variety of materials, including burlap, velvet, and faux fur.

When selecting a tree skirt, consider the size and shape of your tree. A larger tree may require a larger skirt to cover the base, while a smaller tree may look better with a smaller skirt. You should also think about the overall theme of your tree and choose a skirt that complements it.

Incorporating these finishing touches can take your sparse Christmas tree from drab to fab. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and festive tree that will be the envy of all your friends and family.