Tree Trimming Designs & Ideas
Many people look forward to decorating the Christmas tree throughout the year. The idea of a Christmas tree actually started long before it became popular in Christianity; ancient pagans would decorate evergreen trees as a sign of eternal life. Christians later adopted this practice, which evolved into the modern Christmas tree. Whether you have a small tabletop tree or one that takes up half the room, there are tree trimming designs and ideas to help you to create a beautiful tree. Does this Spark an idea?
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Christmas Tree Theme
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One trick to a beautiful tree is to decide upon a theme. This could be a particular color or an item, such as presents, Santa or gingerbread men. Choose ornaments and decorations that fit this theme, then place them evenly throughout the tree. If you have other decorations, place them in between the themed decorations.
Lighting
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The more lights you use, the more illuminated your Christmas tree will be. Better Homes and Gardens suggests using 12 to 20 strands of 50 lights for a 6-foot tree for subdued lighting and 50 strands for showcase lighting. White Christmas lights create an elegant look, but colored lights are often preferred by children. Novelty lights that flicker like candles or play music are available. Decide which type of lighting fits best with your theme.
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Ornaments
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As years go by, you'll collect many ornaments, but a person's first Christmas tree can look pretty bare. Whether you have many ornaments or just a few, you can easily purchase "filler" ornaments at discount stores. These are simple colored balls that come in packages of many. Or look for other designs--such as presents, stars or Santas--to help create a uniform look on your tree. Consider looking for items around the house that you can use, such as cookie cutters or mittens, or make your own ornaments from salt dough or paper.
Garlands
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Garlands are strands that you put on your tree. Purchase garlands that are made from tinsel or beads, or string your own garlands--making garlands from popcorn and cranberries is the traditional method. Other ideas for garlands include ribbons and strings of flowers. If you're going to use flowers, consider using fake flowers, which will last the whole Christmas season. Of course, a Christmas tree doesn't need garland. It's up to you to decide whether it fits with the look that you want.
Top of the Tree
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Choose something to go on the top of the tree that fits with your design. Two of the most popular choices are angels or stars, but you don't have to go with the traditional designs . For example, put a bow or Santa on top. If you've decided to go with a theme for your tree, your tree topper could match that theme--a Star Wars theme might have a Yoda or light saber on top, while a religious themed tree may have a cross.
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