When it's time to deck out the tree, a little planning goes a long way. From the top of the tree to the bottom, implement these tried-and-true tricks that make trimming the tree hassle-free.
Before starting, place the tree in a tree holder and ensure that the screws are turned tightly to avoid the tree tipping over. The tree should be situated in an out-of-the-way corner or in a window. Tree front and sides should be decorated if tree is to be placed in a corner. Plan to trim the whole tree if it is situated in a window.
Tips for Trimming the Tree
Easy Stringing of Lights
- Test lights first to ensure they are working prior to stringing them on the tree.
- Leave lights plugged in to avoid ending up with a fully strung tree that has a cord that doesn't quite reach the electrical outlet.
- One of the best methods to avoid snarled lights is to have one person hold the lights while someone else slowly swivels the tree. As the tree turns the lights can be easily applied to the branches, working upwards. It is best to start at the bottom of the tree, placing the wires partially inwards so they are hidden by the branches.
- Leftover wire can be wound around the tree topper or it can be worked downwards again until the end of the light strand is reached.
Place the tree skirt around the base of the tree, then roll it up towards the center so that it isn't stepped on when decorating the tree. (The tree skirt can be later unfurled, when the tree is fully decorated, and presents placed on it.) Laying out the tree skirt before trimming the tree with ornaments means these aren't knocked off later.
How to Protect Hanging Ornaments
- Hang larger/heavier ornaments inwards on the branches, which reduces chances of their being knocked off. Heavier ornaments have more support when placed closer to center of the tree. Their weight will not cause branches to dip, resulting in ornaments sliding off and breaking.
- A good rule of thumb for Christmas tree decorating is to place smaller ornaments towards the outside part of the branches because these will be easier to see.
- If an artificial tree is used, a neat trick involves bending the branch tips upwards at the ends so that ornaments are protected.
Applying Garlands Effortlessly
Applying garlands is much easier with the aid of another person. One person holds one end and another person walks around the front of the tree draping the garlands over the branches or passing the garlands around to the other side with help. Garlands can be placed prior or after hanging of ornaments, depending on preference.
Tree Topper Tip
Many people prefer to place the tree topper last to crown the tree. It is much easier and safer, however, to position the tree topper before ornaments have been hung on the branches and lights strung. This avoids stretching over the trimmed tree.
Decorated Tree Trick
If space permits, carefully drag the decorated tree into a room or porch close by. If fully trimmed tree is to be stored in this fashion cover with a tree protector to keep dust off branches and to protect ornaments and lights. When Christmas comes around again, the tree is already decorated and can be positioned where desired.
With a little know-how and planning, trimming the tree can be an enjoyable undertaking that commemorates the festive holiday season.
Christmas Ideas:
- Frugal Giving: 10 Low-Cost Present Ideas
- How to Make Homemade Christmas Ornaments
- How to Create a Christmas Scrapbook
Melody Rhodes - M. Rhodes is author of the Bedbug Books. She's been published in Canada, U.S. U.K. & NZ and has won awards for her poetry/prose.
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