The Ultimate Guide to Flocking a Christmas Tree

What Is Flocking?

Flocking is the process of covering a bare Christmas tree in white synthetic powder, giving the illusion of snow.

This process makes it possible to have a “white Christmas” whether or not it snows in your location. It simply makes the holiday season more magical!

In this article, we provide the ultimate guide in flocking a Christmas tree so you can achieve the perfect snow effect on your tree.

Flocking Methods

The most popular DIY flocking methods for Christmas trees are flocking kits, flocking sprays, and self-adhesive flocking powder.

Flocking Kits

A Christmas tree flocking kit usually includes a misting gun that filters flock and water to create an even and natural look.

Flocking Sprays

When sprayed on the branches of your real or faux tree, a Christmas tree flocking spray can mimic the look of fallen snow. This method allows you to control the amount of snow on your tree. You can choose to just have one single pass or add more for a heavier snow effect.

Self-Adhesive Flocking Powder

Among the three methods, the powder is generally the most popular choice. Most Christmas tree flocking powders are made from natural, biodegradable, and non-toxic materials, such as cotton, cellulose, and corn products.

Step-by-Step Guide to Flocking a Christmas Tree

How to Flock a Christmas Tree Using Spray

Step 1: Prep the Workspace

Choose a well-ventilated space that doesn’t get much traffic. Protect the surface with plastic sheeting or a drop cloth, as well as the base of the tree or any other item that you don’t want to flock.

Step 2: Fluff the Tree Branches

Open and fluff the branches of the Christmas tree.

Step 3: Spray the Branches

Shake the can of flocking spray before spraying. Start spraying the tops of the branches using a steady back-and-forth motion. Continue layering the spray until you’re happy with the coverage. The closer and more passes, the heavier the snow effect.

Step 4: Allow to Dry

Allow your Christmas tree to dry in a covered location, undisturbed. This normally takes 24 to 48 hours. Once the entire tree is completely dry, you can decorate it with lights and ornaments.

How to Flock a Christmas Tree With Powder

Step 1: Prep the Workspace

Choose a well-ventilated space. Prepare your work surface with plastic sheeting or a drop cloth. Protect the base of your Christmas tree and anything you don’t want to flock with plastic sheeting or a plastic trash bag.

Step 2: Fluff the Tree Branches

If you’re using an artificial Christmas tree, open and fluff the branches before flocking it so that the powder falls over the correct places. A live tree’s branches will naturally relax and open once indoors.

Step 3: Spray the Tree

Using a spray bottle on the mist setting, lightly spray your Christmas tree with water until they’re well-misted. Be careful not to oversaturate the branches.

Step 4: Apply the Flocking Powder

Use a wire mesh sifter for sprinkling your flocking powder to ensure that the powder is distributed evenly across the branches. Hold it above the moist branches, sprinkling the flocking powder on the tops of the branches. Slightly mist the branches again if needed.

Step 5: Layer the Flocking Powder

Continue spraying the branches and sprinkling the flocking powder until you’re happy with the coverage.

Step 6: Allow to Dry

Once you’re done adding the flocking powder, mist the branches one more time, then let your Christmas tree dry completely before decorating.

Decorating Ideas for Flocked Christmas Trees

After you’ve transformed your bare Christmas tree into a snowy, magical holiday décor at your home, you may now make it even more beautiful with ornaments!

Winter Woodland

Adorn your flocked Christmas tree with woodland-themed ornaments such as birds, squirrels, and owls, adding berry picks and classic Christmas balls. A burlap ribbon would be an excellent choice around the tree, creating a rustic look.

Metallic Winter

For a sophisticated metallic winter theme, opt for gray and silver Christmas accents with crystal and glitter. Complement these ornaments with a gray velvet or silver lamé fabric ribbon for that extra sparkle.

Fresh Blooms

Cover your tree with flowers! You can choose the traditional route with poinsettias or opt for a mix of blooms in the same color for a monochromatic effect, like peonies and roses.

Safety Tips for Flocking at Home

Here are some safety tips and precautions when flocking your Christmas tree at home:

1. As mentioned earlier, choose a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing and ingesting the powder or spray, as some may contain fire-retardant chemicals.
2. Wear a mask, gloves, and safety goggles when preparing and applying the flocking mixture.
3. Keep flocking materials away from children and pets. While most of these are non-toxic, there are some flocking sprays that may contain potentially hazardous chemicals.
4. If your Christmas tree has lights, make sure that there are no broken bulbs and frayed wires to prevent electrical hazards.

Wrap Up

Now that you know the methods you can use to flock your Christmas tree at home, it’s time to start planning for this exciting DIY holiday project!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us today:
Phone: (310)276–9827
Email: info@mrgreentrees.com

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