Starting life as a 7 1/2′ tree, this tree has become the perfect addition to our window seat in the lower level. After years of having to move furniture out of the way, I decided a couple of years ago to see if I could lose the bottom section of the tree, and it worked out perfectly. Now 4 1/2′ of packed goodness. Making an artificial tree feel full and luxurious is not hard with the right equipment.

A pre-lit tree from Lowes several years ago, the tree has nice realistic tips but, with all trees real or faux there are gaps. I had to make a quick run to Hobby Lobby for new lights. What to do when a pre-lit tree goes dark? Cut!!! Take your scissors and cut all the wires out of it. 400 lights later I had the tree re-lit. Remember to light from within weaving the light wires in and out. Could I have used one more box of lights? Yes but, this is fine and I decided not to worry about it, after all, the magic isn’t coming from the lights.

The next step was to add a variety of faux picks to the tree, to fill in those gaps. I did start at the top with my favorite picks, creating a “nest” for my owl I like to use on the tree. Over the years I have collected various types of faux picks, creating different interest and texture to the tree. A coppery, prickly garland I cut apart so I could just slip picks in amongst the branches. From leaves in an old gold, to create some sparkle, to cascading pinecones that create lots of movement. Generally the picks I use are not your standard evergreen picks.

That complete, I start to layer on the ornaments. As in years past, I do not do theme trees. I do a family tree. Ornaments collected over the years that remind me of a time and place. Ornaments that make me smile as I unwrap each carefully wrapped piece. I haven’t bought a new ornament in several years now but, I still enjoy the process.

There is no rule for my ornament placement except I do bury some lesser ornaments into the center of the tree to create multiple layers. Smaller ornaments tend to go towards the top of the tree, while larger ones find a home towards the bottom. I have several inexpensive DIY ball ornaments that were painted in 2007 when I needed to keep my hands busy, while losing my dad. All the rest are figurative. House of Haden, Christopher Radko, Mackenzie Childs Crystals, and others I picked up just because they spoke to me on some level, back in the day.

After all the picks are in play and the ornaments tied onto the branches it is time to asses, and give the tree some rhythm. I add sections of ribbon that I have bunched with zip ties, then I tuck and balloon into the tree. After everything is said and done I add twig wire that I have had forever. Loosely and thinly placed around the tree, now I have my movement.

Next I start on the window seat. The suitcase the tree is resting in needed filling, so I used a throw to cover the stand. I added some leather law books to create different levels to display my collection of Steiff Bears. This collection was started years ago while visiting my sister in Germany. They are dressed up for a day of play. A red velvet jacket and a jaunty tam, a funky Happy New Year hat, I made a long time ago. This little bear was made by my cousin who used to make bears and sell them. A very special bear indeed. Christmas is the time to be a bit silly, and use your imagination. It doesn’t have to make sense, it just needs to be creative and fun. A favorite pair of shoes that belonged to my mom, take center stage stuffed with a letter and an antique garnet hair comb, and some greens.

A pair of red leather gloves that also belonged to her balance the shoes on the other side. It doesn’t need to make sense at Christmas, it just needs to be personal.

The only other tree I decorate is my small table top feather tree. A few Radko Gems, and some darling felt appliqué ornaments, along with a couple ornaments from my grandparents.

A paper chain my granddaughter and I made when she was 4, also helps to create movement. Topped off with my grandmothers candle holders. Placed inside a band box filled with pinecones.

A jaunty plaid taffeta bow and topped off with a paper star I made a while ago. A bowl of pomegranates and greens complete the table.

As you fine tune your holiday decorations, I hope this tree tutorial gives you some ideas. Remember to think outside the box and have some fun.

Are you done decorating? Share your favorite thing with me.

Thanks for stopping

Shelley