How to Flock a Christmas Tree

We all dream of a white Christmas, full of familiarity, tradition and magic. The good news is that even if there is no chance of a snowy festive season, you can still recreate the lovely atmosphere with a beautifully flocked tree.

In recent years, the flocking process, which consists of covering a tree in white synthetic powder, has turned into quite a popular solution for bringing the winter wonderland into your home or garden. You can do that by either using flocking powder or flocking spray.

To learn the tips and tricks, keep reading. In this article, we will show you how to flock a Christmas tree easily and seamlessly.

So, if you:

  • Want to learn the best and easiest methods for flocking a Christmas tree;
  • Are wondering whether you can flock both fake and real Christmas trees;
  • Want to know what tools you’ll need for your DIY flocking project;

Then, read on.

What is a flocked Christmas tree?

You’ve probably seen thousands of beautiful snow-covered Christmas trees while passing by stores or on TV, but if you have never come across the term ‘flocked tree’, it refers to the process where evergreen plants are dusted with artificial snow. Not to be confused with fake Christmas trees designed with white plastic needles; here a white powder is used for a more customised effect.

Flocking can be implemented on both artificial and real Christmas trees. While there are plenty of pre-flocked evergreen trees available on the market, the benefit of flocking your tree on your own is that you can not only save money, but that it also allows you to get creative. 

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What is Christmas tree flocking made of?

In the past, materials like cotton, flour and cornstarch used to be spruced on Christmas trees to recreate a snowy appearance. Nowadays, we use modern-day flocking, which is mostly made of tiny cellulose or cotton fibres, self-adhesive and often fire retardant and glitter.

While you can opt to use materials like soap flakes, white glue or spray paint, we recommend using real snow flocking powder/spray for a more authentic result. Flocking has been designed specifically for decorating Christmas trees, it lasts longer and is a preferred option by florists and professionals alike.

How to flock a Christmas tree with flocking powder

While flocking trees creates magical results, the process can get quite messy. Before you begin, we recommend choosing a room with good ventilation and which you won’t need to use immediately after. Keep in mind that after flocking, the tree will need some time to dry completely.

What you need:

  • Drop cloth
  • Plastic bag
  • Flocking powder
  • Water
  • Spray bottle
  • Fine-mesh strainer

Time needed: 50 minutes.

  1. Prepping for work

    Spread a drop cloth or plastic sheeting over the floor. Wrap a plastic bag around the base of your tree to protect it from the flocking powder. Make sure to open and fluff the branches if your tree is artificial to achieve a fuller look and better coverage.

  2. Spraying the tree

    Using a spray bottle, mist the tree with water, while paying special attention to the tops of the branches. At the same time, be careful not to oversaturate the tree.

  3. Applying the flocking

    Place the flocking powder in a fine-mesh strainer for more even distribution over the branches. Start from the top and move to the bottom. Work your way from the tips inward.

  4. Finishing touches

    For better coverage, after applying the powder once, continue flocking until you reach the desired look. Finally, mist with water again and let the tree dry for around 8 hours.

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How to flock a Christmas tree with flocking spray

Here, the steps required don’t differ much from those when using flocking powder. You won’t need to spray water before and after but still, adequate preparation and a well-ventilated working space are necessary.

What you need:

  • Drop cloth
  • Plastic bag
  • Flocking spray

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Preparing
    Spread a drop cloth and wrap the base of your tree in a plastic bag. Don’t forget to fluff the tree branches. You will also need to shake the flocking spray before using it.
  2. Spraying the tree
    Spray the tops of the branches using back-and-forth motions. The closer you hold the can to the branches, the denser the snow will appear.
  3. Layering and drying
    Continue spraying the flocking snow until you reach the desired coverage. Once you are done, leave the tree to dry completely.

Are you ready for the holidays? Order a real Christmas tree now!

Christmas without a Christmas tree is just not the same. However, if you don’t have enough time for shopping around, you can opt for Christmas tree delivery. Fantastic Services offers delivery of either pot-grown Norway spruces or real cut Nordmann Firs. When the Christmas season is over, you can also trust the friendly team to help you dispose of your tree or transplant it directly into your garden. Book Christmas tree delivery today and spend merry holidays with a real fresh-scented evergreen.

Don’t have a Christmas tree for this year?

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Takeaways

  • Flocking a Christmas tree refers to the process of covering a conifer with artificial snow.  
  • Two main methods are known for flocking a Christmas tree, using a flocking powder or a flocking spray.
  • Both artificial and real trees can be flocked.
  • Flocking is mostly made of tiny cellulose or cotton fibres, self-adhesive, glitter and fire retardant.

Let us know what you think in the comments section below. We look forward to hearing from you!

Image source: Shutterstock / Scott Book

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