Flocking Christmas Trees: 2 Methods that Are Cheap and Easy

Flocking Christmas Trees is an old tradition that is finding a revival of sorts. Flocking can be very messy and difficult. If you are going to flock your Christmas Tree you need to pay special attention to a few things before you do. Determine in your own mind how much flocking you would like to put on your tree. Do you want your tree to be permanently flocked? Also make sure and determine before you begin how you are going to decorate the rest of the Christmas tree. Pay special attention to how you wish to do your lights and ornaments.

Here are 2 methods for flocking Christmas trees both real and artificial.

White Spray Paint
The first method for a beautifully frosted tree involves buying some inexpensive white spray paint. While the tree is still outside go ahead and put the tree on the stand and keep your Christmas tree in the upright position. Find a ladder or chair that will allow you to reach well over the top of your tree. You want to make sure that your flocking or paint will fall on the tree the way real snow would fall. Make sure that when you are flocking Christmas trees with any type of spray material that you use a well vented area or a mask.

Begin by lightly spraying your white spray paint and letting it fall naturally on the limbs and needles. By allowing the paint to fall you will avoid clumping and runs. Always make sure and spray from the top down and never from lower than a 90 degree angle. Pay special attention to always keep your spray paint at least 3 inches away from your tree. For an average tree you will need about 3-6 cans of spray paint depending on how thick you want your flocking. When flocking Christmas trees with white spray paint make sure that anything you want protected from over spray is well covered.

White Laundry Detergent
When I was younger my grandmother loved flocking Christmas trees with laundry detergent. She would do this by finding a pure white laundry detergent. In order to flock your tree with this method you must first prepare your flocking material. Mix your pure white laundry detergent into some warm water using a 5 to 1 mixture (5 detergent, 1 part water). Add water until you reach a peanut butter consistency. Once you have enough flocking material you can begin spreading the material lightly onto the limbs of your trees. Make sure and start from the top down. If you have never been involved in flocking Christmas trees using this method then you need to make sure and start in an inconspicuous part of your tree.

Using either of these 2 methods require some time for your tree to dry before bringing inside. Once your trees are dry bring them inside and begin decorating. If you are flocking Christmas trees for the first time this year you are in for a unique experience. Once finished and your lights are hung, your decorations are in place, and your gifts are placed underneath you will truly appreciate a beautiful tree.