How to Decorate a Christmas Tree

Wondering how to decorate a Christmas tree to achieve that perfectly polished, festive look? You're in luck. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the Christmas tree decorating process from lights to tree topper, helping you decorate a Christmas tree like a pro.

At Christmas Tree World, we believe every tree, from the tallest showstopper to the cosiest corner spruce, deserves the spotlight. Here’s exactly how to make it shine.

1. Choose a Christmas tree

Before you decorate, choose the right tree for your space. If you’re going artificial (and we highly recommend it for durability and style), opt for a high-quality artificial Christmas tree with strong branches and realistic foliage.

Once you’ve bought or unpacked it, be sure to fluff the tree branches properly before adding any Christmas decorations. This simple step can make a huge difference to the final result. Carefully spread out every branch to add depth and achieve that full, natural shape. Check out our branch fluffing guide for step-by-step advice.

Our full and bushy trees are specially designed to hold your Christmas tree lights and ornaments with ease. With a 10-year foliage guarantee, our high-quality trees offer years of joy and a realistic finish that rivals the real tree look, with none of the needle drop.

Optional touch: Place a decorative tree skirt or a rustic wooden base around the tree stand now. It adds a finished look and hides any messy wires. To bring more magic to the base of your tree, opt for a pre-lit tree skirt with snowy woodland scenes.

 

2. Hang your lights

Lights always go on first. Hanging them after you’ve placed baubles can disrupt your design (and your patience).

There are several types of Christmas tree lights to choose from:

At Christmas Tree World, you’ll find a wide range of LED lights for indoors, as well as outdoor Christmas tree lights.

Start from the base layer near the trunk, wrapping upwards and weaving between the inner branches and outer branches to add depth and even distribution. Not sure where to begin? Check out our full guide to putting lights on a Christmas tree.

If you've opted for a pre-lit Christmas tree, you can skip this part and enjoy some mulled wine instead!

3. Wrap a garland around your tree

Once your lights are in place, it’s time to add garland. This can include:

  • Christmas garlands with greenery and berries

  • Wired ribbon or thinner ribbon for draping

  • Beaded or metallic strands for sparkle

Wrap the garland loosely around the tree in a spiral from top to bottom. Alternate different textures to create visual interest and ensure the garland complements the rest of your Christmas decorations.

4. Create layers with baubles and ornaments

To decorate your Christmas tree like a designer, start decorating with your most important ornaments first. These might be handmade ornaments, sentimental favourites, or statement pieces.

Then follow this order:

  • Larger baubles go deeper into the inner branches to add depth

  • Medium baubles and small baubles fill the gaps on the outer branches

  • Vary textures, finishes, and colours to keep the tree visually balanced

  • Hang decorations at different angles and heights for a natural, full look

Don’t forget to step back often and view from multiple sides to check spacing and symmetry.

5. Add any more personal touches

Once your core Christmas tree decorations are in place, it’s time to add that extra charm.

Try:

  • Pine cones (real or faux)

  • Sprigs of faux holly or frosted foliage

  • Hanging cinnamon sticks or dried orange slices

  • Mini picture frames or keepsakes

  • Handmade ornaments from the kids

These final flourishes make your Christmas tree stand out and, more importantly, make it truly yours.

6. Place your tree topper

The final, and arguably most iconic, step is the tree topper. Whether you choose a traditional star, a bow, an angel, or your own topper, make sure it suits your overall theme and fits your tree height.

To avoid a lopsided topper, secure it well with floral wire or hidden hooks. Step back and adjust as needed to ensure it sits beautifully at the very top.

7. Add your presents!

It’s time to finish decorating your tree with the best part: the presents! If you’ve planned well, you’ve matched your wrapping paper to the theme you chose for your decorations.

Carefully piling up presents around the base will naturally draw attention to your Christmas tree, turning it into a magical festive display.

Ready to decorate your Christmas tree like a pro?

Whether you're going for cosy and traditional or bold and modern, the perfect Christmas tree starts with the right foundation, and we've got everything you need to bring your vision to life.

Explore our premium range of artificial Christmas trees, stunning garlands, dazzling LED lights, and hand-picked baubles and decorations to create your most beautiful tree yet.

From pre-lit convenience to designer-worthy details, our collection is crafted to help you decorate your Christmas tree with ease, elegance, and plenty of festive cheer.

Shop now and make this festive season your most magical yet.

FAQs about how to decorate a Christmas tree

How do you decorate a Christmas tree to look full?

Use larger baubles on the inner branches near the trunk and fill gaps with medium and small ornaments. Use garlands, picks, and layered textures to add depth and create a fuller look. Fluff and shape your branches properly before you begin.

How do you arrange baubles on a Christmas tree?

Start with your most important or eye-catching ornaments and spread them evenly around the tree. Place larger baubles closer to the centre for depth, and use smaller ones near the outer branches. Step back regularly to check for even distribution.

When should I start decorating my Christmas tree?

Most people start in late November or early December. For a real tree, aim for 2–3 weeks before Christmas to keep it fresh. With an artificial tree, you can start decorating earlier and enjoy it longer throughout the festive season.

How do I match my tree to the rest of my room?

Pick a colour palette that complements your holiday decor, whether that's gold and cream, silver and icy blue, or bright multicoloured. Extend this theme to your mantelpiece, stair garlands, and wreaths for a unified look.