Winning The Battle On Christmas Lights: Artificial Trees

Stringing lights onto your Christmas tree can be a major nightmare. I mean, people have written songs about how terrible it is. Before the stress of the season takes over, check out our latest guest post from holiday expert Linda Knighton. These simple tips for lighting your artificial Christmas tree will help keep peace on earth throughout your holiday preparation.

If you’re new to owning an artificial Christmas tree, you may discover that it’s a little different to decorate. Although it generally takes more time to put light strands on an artificial Christmas tree, the benefit is that once you’ve placed them on the branches, you won’t have to remove them again. Below are some ideas for selecting the right lights for your Christmas tree, and some tips on how to decorate with them.

• Use 50-foot light strands. According to Better Homes and Gardens, these lights are less likely to have electrical problems or burn out. If you want subdued lighting, Better Homes’ website suggests 12 boxes of 50-foot light strands for a 6-foot tree, or 20 boxes for an 8-foot tree. If you prefer a brighter look, use 20 boxes for a 6-foot tree or 30 boxes for an 8-foot tree.

• Check the Christmas lights before you start putting them on the tree. Make sure all the strands are untangled and that none of the light bulbs are loose. Plug each into an electrical socket to ensure that they work and that none of the bulbs are burnt out.

• Begin stringing at the bottom of the tree trunk, moving outward to the tip of each branch. If you want the lighting on your Christmas tree to have a more subdued look, you should wrap the strand loosely around each branch. If you prefer brighter lighting, wrap the strands closer together. Allow plenty of slack and gently drape as you wrap to help the tree maintain its shape.

• Repeat the wrap on the same branch moving back towards the trunk. Move to the next branch, working your way up from the bottom level and until you reach the end of the first 50-foot strand.

• Attach the end of the first 50-foot strand to the beginning of the next one. Continue wrapping each branch as you did with the bottom level, moving up, adding more strands of lights as you go.

• Wrap the final strand around the final branch that usually supports the tree topper. You’re now ready to place the ornaments on your tree!

Linda Knighton writes for Christmas blogs where you can find out more about Santa’s Quarters and other Christmas boutique sellers.