How to flock a Christmas tree?

Going for a natural look this holiday season? Flocking your Christmas tree may be perfect for you. Flocked Christmas trees look like they have been freshly dusted with a coat of snow. For many, snow embodies the winter season and the coziness of the holiday, so incorporating this element into your look can create a highly festive space.

There are so many ways to flock your Christmas tree, but having the proper equipment and technique will allow you to create the perfect snow-kissed tree.

Flocked Christmas trees are artificial trees that have been coated by various materials, including powders, sprays, and more, to give the appearance of a fresh coat of snow. 

These trees make any space a winter wonderland.

Decorating for Christmas is important and flocking your Christmas tree can be a great option if you live in an area where snow is very uncommon; you can finally get the white Christmas of your dreams!

Additionally, flocking your Christmas tree can make your other decorations pop. Imagine brightly colored ornaments sitting on a warmly lit, snowy backdrop. This beautiful contrast creates a unique and charming look for any space.

All you have to do is cover your tree in a material that will stick to its surface, providing a realistic appearance of snow.

Listed below are several ways you can coat your own tree.

Spray-on snow is one of the preferred methods for flocking for several reasons, including:

• No additional preparation steps necessary to prepare flocking material
• Easy to evenly spread around tree
• Easy to control when using
• Dries quickly
• Can be removed quickly with little to no residue left on your tree

Here’s how you can use spray-on snow for your tree:

Pick a place where you can set up your tree and snow-dust it, without any surfaces or items getting damaged from the spray. You will want to choose a space that is well lit so you can see what you are doing. It is also important that you don’t inhale any chemicals from the spray, so your space must be well ventilated. Working outdoors is always a great option.

Lay down cloth where you will place your tree and cover any surfaces that you don’t want damaged. You should also have a spray bottle filled with water in case you need to quickly remove some of the spray-on snow.

If your tree is artificial , properly assemble it, ensuring that each component is secured. Remove any ornaments or lights from your tree, leaving it completely bare. If you are going to fluff your tree, this is also the time to do it.

Read any instructions on the can and start spraying. As you work, keep the can upright and a proper distance from the tree (6 - 12 inches). Take a step back as needed to check your work. Make sure that every part of your tree is adequately covered and the snow is evenly spread.

Give your flocking time to dry so it is able to last throughout the holiday season. It will take several hours for your tree to dry. Do not touch it or move it during this process.

This kind of flocking takes more time to use, but the extra steps are worth it as it creates a highly realistic snow. You can easily apply and control the exact appearance you are looking for, including using different colors and finishes.

Learn below about how you can use flocking powder or premade flocking on your own Christmas tree.

Similar to above, choose the proper space to work and cover any surfaces that may be damaged while coating your tree.

Set up your tree using the proper method and check that each component is secured.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the flock you have purchased. Oftentimes, you will need to add water to the powder. Ensure that you add the right amount of water if this is the case. 

Work in sections. You will likely need to add an adhesive to your tree. Add the adhesive to the section you will begin, either by using a brush or spray bottle. Then add the powder to this area. Repeat around the entire tree, creating an even layer in every space.

Give the adhesive time to fully dry before using your tree again or adding decorations. Read the instructions for the adhesive on how long you will need to wait.

Unlike other options, this choice is environmentally-friendly and will help create a natural texture.

Follow the steps below if using desiccated coconut.

Lay protective covering over the surfaces you will be working. You will also want to move or cover any items you don’t want to be damaged from your desiccated coconut flocking.

Assemble your Christmas tree following the correct instructions and securing each piece.

If you have not already done so, you can make your own desiccated coconut or you can purchase some. In a container, mix some adhesive with the desiccated coconut that is broken down into a powder. You will want there to be enough adhesive that the coconut will be able to stick to the tree, but not too much that the adhesive will run off the tree.

Apply some adhesive to your tree and then add the desiccated coconut mixed with the adhesive to your tree by sprinkling the powder. You can use your hand to push in pieces of the coconut so it will stay in place.

Give at least a few hours for your desiccated coconut to dry.

Shaving cream is an often overlooked option, but it is a great choice. Here are a few reasons why:

• Affordable
• Easy to clean up
• Easy to use
• Non-toxic

Read below for how you can use shaving cream to give your tree a snow-dusted look.

To protect your space and make clean up easier, lay out a cloth to cover any surfaces where you will be working.

Begin constructing your artificial Christmas tree, fitting each piece into the proper space. Use manufacturer instructions to aid in this process.

Apply a small amount of shaving cream on the tree and add more as needed. Use your hands (with gloves) or a brush to spread around the shaving cream around where it was applied and shape it how you prefer.

Wait for about 4 - 6 hours for your flocking to completely set in place.

Traditional kinds of flocking often include ingredients that have a powdery consistency.

If using something similar, follow the steps below to achieve the perfect snow-covered Christmas tree.

Set up your tree following the manufacturer’s instructions. You will want to construct your tree where you will be flocking and it should be placed over a tarp or cloth to easily be cleaned up after.

Use various cloths or covering that will protect your work space from coming in contact with the flocking material you will use.

Mix an adhesive with water, following the instructions of the manufacturer. Then use a brush or put the mixture in a spray bottle and cover the tree.

Use a sifter as it will allow you to evenly spread your material. Hold the sifter above the branches you want to cover and gently shake it until your desired amount falls out. After you cover each section with the powder, spray it again with the adhesive and water mixture to ensure that the powder will stay.

Step back to observe your work and carefully examine for any missed spots. Use the same technique in the previous step to cover any empty spots. Also, make sure that the tree is evenly covered in the powder. Once finished with applying the flocking, spray the areas you sifted.

Allow several hours for the flocking to set in place. It is best to leave your tree overnight before continuing to decorate.

We’ve listed out a couple simple tips to ensure that you are able to achieve the desired look for your Christmas tree, even if it is your first time flocking. We know that with so many techniques for creating the perfect snowy Christmas tree, it can be overwhelming. Read below for how you can set yourself up for success.

It is crucial that you properly clean up your space once finished. Ensure that any surfaces or items that the flocking reaches are thoroughly cleaned. It is a good idea to keep children and pets away during the process.

Additionally, some forms of flocking for Christmas trees may not be flame-retardant, creating a potential fire hazard if they come in contact with open flames. Work in a space where it wouldn’t be a possibility for these items to reach each other.

This includes gloves, goggles, and a mask. Always protect your skin and ensure you don’t inhale any of the flocking materials. Keep your hands away from your face when working and thoroughly clean your hands once finished.

Always work in a well ventilated space when flocking your Christmas tree. Many options for Christmas tree flocking include materials that contain various chemicals that can be harmful to skin or if inhaled.

It is highly recommended to work outside so the chemicals can easily dissipate.

This is an important part to ensure that everything goes well once you start the flocking process.

Follow the steps below to test your flocking material:

• Choose a small section of your tree.
• Flock your tree in this small area, applying the material that you have chosen in the proper manner.
• Evaluate the flocking in this area.
• Make changes as needed.

There is no right way to create your snowy Christmas tree. The most important thing is that you are happy with your tree and you feel it fits your decorated space well.

While decorating, why not experiment a little? Read below for some tips on unique ways you can incorporate various elements with a snow-dusted tree.

You want all of your decor to coordinate well, and choosing a color scheme can aid in this process.

Some common color schemes include:

• Holiday red
• Red and green
• White and silver
• Pastel colors
• Candy cane red and white

Before you decide which colors to move forward with, you will want to take into account the fake snow on your tree. Think about its color and if it is a heavy or thin layer. Using this knowledge, pick colors that will blend in seamlessly. If you have a heavy layer of flocking, icy blues may be a good complement. However, if you have a thinner layer, try using darker shades, including emerald green or burgundy.

Using some LED mini lights with warm tones can help create a cozy feel in your space. Try experimenting with different light tones. You can also use different light sizes or you can use various lighted elements on your tree. For instance, try using a few light-up ornaments.

Try using fake pine cones or some holly leaves to bring out the natural component of your tree even more. Shades of brown, green, and red nicely contrast with the white from the flocking. 

You can add these to your tree by using glue and placing them throughout your tree.

Themed ornaments can bring a personalized and authentic touch to a tree, helping you tell a story just with this one piece. It can also bring all of your Christmas decorations together under one theme. A cohesive look is always aesthetically appealing and can elevate any space.

One of the most important pieces to any tree is a tree topper . This decoration can tie every aspect of your tree together, creating a balanced look. Try to pick a tree topper that follows the general theme and color scheme of your other decorations so it won’t be overpowering. Also, you should pick the size of your tree topper based on the size of your tree so that it is proportionate.

Flocking your Christmas tree is just another one of the many ways you can create a unique and festive tree . Though seemingly complicated, it is relatively easy to transform your tree to be perfectly snow-kissed. Use the proper tools and one of the many flocking materials for your tree. Whether it’s your first time or tenth time, it will turn out amazing.

Looking for other ways you can transform your tree or decorated space? Don’t hesitate to contact us.