How to Hang Pearl Bead Strands on a Christmas Tree

Pearl bead strands are extremely versatile.

Numerous cultures, including the Romans, Egyptians, Arabs and Chinese, have esteemed pearls for centuries. Although once designated for the wealthy, pearl beads are now common jewelry accessories and even holiday decorations. Pearl bead strands instantly add an elegant touch to Christmas trees, especially when the beads are accented by white lights and shimmering, metallic ornaments. Like all decorations, pearl bead strands require proper placement on Christmas tree branches to ensure the trees appear adequately balanced and aesthetically appealing.

Things You'll Need

• Step ladder

Instructions

1. Set up a step ladder next to the Christmas tree to help you access the top branches. Disregard this step you are tall enough to comfortably reach the tree’s top branches.

2. Select a small, concealed branch at the top of the tree. Gently wrap one end of the pearl bead strand around the base of the concealed branch three or four times to secure the strand to the tree.

3. Drape the free end of the pearl bead strand in a downward spiral pattern around the tree. Evenly space each spiral to create a balanced appearance. Position the bead strand 1 to 2 inches from the tips of the tree’s branches to ensure the pearls are noticeable.

4. Continue draping the pearl strand down and around the Christmas tree until you reach the very bottom layer of branches. Once you have draped every lower branch with the bead strand, begin draping the pearl bead strand in an spiral pattern up the tree.

5. Focus on draping the pearl bead strand on bare branches as you spiral the bead strand up the tree. Space the spirals closer together than previously, but still keep them evenly spaced apart. Position the bead strand 3 to 4 inches from the tips of the tree’s branches to create depth.

6. Continue draping the pearl bead strand up and around the Christmas tree until the strand ends or you reach another small, concealed branch at the top of the tree. If the pearl bead strand it too short to reach the top of the tree, simply hide the loose end in the tree’s foliage, and then start draping another pearl bead strand where the other strand stopped. You don’t need to secure the new strand to the branch, since you’re not starting at the top of the tree. Otherwise, if the first strand does reach the top of the tree, carefully wrap the free end of the strand around the base of the hidden branch three or four times.

7. Stand back from the Christmas tree and inspect the pearl bead strands to ensure the spirals are evenly spaced and the ends of the strands aren’t showing. Adjust the strands, if necessary, until they appear balanced and visually appealing

Tips & Warnings

• Have somebody else help you drape the pearl bead strands onto the tree.

References

• Public Broadcasting Service: The History of Pearls
• "Country Living": Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas