A crucial step when decorating at Christmas is fluffing the tree – it's the process of shaping the branches, and it's the secret to making an artificial tree look fuller and more balanced.
Fluffing is an essential step for every professional tree decorator, but be warned – it can take several hours to perfect. The results, however, are more than worth it.
Buying new? Many people choose artificial Christmas trees for the freedom and convenience, so if you're investing in a new one, opt for a high-quality design for aesthetics as much as longevity. Additionally, opt for 'trees that incorporate Polyethylene tips', advises Rory Parkes, Christmas buying manager at B&Q. 'These are moulded from real branches and offer a significantly more realistic and authentic look than traditional PVC needles,' he explains.
It'll always take the longest to fluff when it's a new tree, but there’s another top tip when buying: 'To achieve the fullest appearance, check the density and tip count, as a higher number means greater overall volume and a more premium look that effectively hides the central pole,' says Rory.
If you're taking your Christmas tree out of storage for another year, fluffing is still required. 'After storage, the branches are often compressed,' says Zoe Warren, interior design expert at PriceYourJob.co.uk. 'You will need to take some time to fan them out evenly. This will make a huge difference in how full and natural the tree looks.'
4 simple steps to fluffing your Christmas tree
1. Fluff in sections
Always fluff your tree in sections, say the team at Balsam Hill, who create the most realistic artificial Christmas trees. Start from the bottom and work your way up, it's always easier to manage if you do it in parts.
2. Shape from the inside out
Begin by fluffing and shaping the inner branches; this hides the trunk, fills empty spaces, and gives your tree a lush, natural look. Then move on to the mid branches and spread them outwards for fullness. Then, pull apart any ends that are twisted or stuck together.
Rory at B&Q suggests 'deliberately alternating the direction of the tips (some East-West, others North-South)' for a fuller look.
3. Step back regularly
As you go along, stand back to check for any gaps or spots that need additional fluffing.
• If you need more help, follow this demonstration from Balsam Hill:
