Ideas for Sprucing Up an Old Artificial Christmas Tree

My children and I needed an artificial Christmas tree this year but I really didn't have the money to go buy a brand new one. I decided to put the word out among family and friends and search the thrift stores for an older, unlit Christmas tree that just needed a little tender love and care to make it shine. Here are a few tips I've used to rejuvenate and spruce up an old artificial Christmas tree and make it look great.

Use Pine Garland for a Thin, Sparse Tree
If your artificial tree is a little on the spindly side (perhaps it is missing branches or the branches have become thin due to needle loss), invest in some green pine garland. Some stores even sell pine garland that is made with wire in the center and small off-shooting branches to look more tree-like.

Wrap pine garland of any type around the trunk and inner branches of your tree to thicken it up and give it a more full appearance. I have used this trick with trees in the past and it makes a difference with very little cost. I have even found used pine garland at thrift stores for very little cost.

Fake Snow Spray
If the branches on your old tree are looking a little worse for wear, hit the tree with some spray snow to creative some festive and seasonal camouflage.

Combine Two Trees
If you can get your hands on another old, used artificial tree, use some of the branches to plump up your tree. Tie the extra branches to your tree's branches and in between the branches to create more fullness.

Use Pinecones and Holly Berries
If you have access to small pinecones, dress up your tree's branches by using hot glue to attach pine cones. Glue a few onto the ends of the branches to create a natural look. Glue holly berry sprays onto branches to add more color and festive touches.

Use Raffia for a Sparse Tree
Bits of raffia stuffed in among branches on the tree creates a rustic country look while filling in open and thin spots.

Silk Flowers
Purchase a few silk flowers such as poinsettias in red or white. Stick the flowers in among the tree branches to add both color and interest to your tree.

Combinations
Experiment with combinations of all of these ideas to see what you like best. Just because an old artificial Christmas tree is worn and in rough shape doesn't mean it is past its prime. Dress it up with a few of these ideas to a face lift and a great way to make do with what you've got while not spending a lot of extra money.