What are Flocked Styled Christmas Trees?
If you’re here because you’re wondering what a flocked Christmas tree is, then you’re in the right place.
In this article, you’ll discover what flock is on a tree, and we aim to answer all your burning questions.
Christmas trees are such an iconic part of the holiday season and make up a huge part of the Christmas decor. Million of trees are sold every year, and you’ll always find the same debate recurring as to whether real or artificial Christmas trees are better.
Whatever your thoughts and preference, both real and fake Christmas trees can transform your home into a winter wonderland in the run-up to the big day.
And a white Christmas is just as essential as the tree itself, with snow falling and dusting the branches of Christmas trees. Nowadays, many trees are flocked to create this beautiful snowy effect and bring the freshly snowed look into your home.
But, what on earth is a flocked Christmas tree?!
Well, let’s find out!
What is a Flocked Christmas Tree?
Simply put, Christmas tree flocking is the process of adding artificial snow to a Christmas tree to create a natural effect and look of snow.
And, without bringing real snow into your home before it becomes a puddle of water 30 minutes later.
Both real and artificial Christmas trees can be flocked to create the look of a snowy tree.
And the good news is, it’s actually fairly easy to add artificial snow to a Christmas tree yourself. Or, simply buy a fake flocked Christmas tree to save you flocking your tree yourself.
What is on a Flocked Christmas Tree?
Generally, most flocked Christmas trees have had white powder applied to the branches during the manufacturing process. Tiny white fibres are attached to the needles to give it the natural appearance of snowy branches.
Over time the fibres and powder will begin to wear away and come off, especially when the tree is packed and unpacked. So, taking good care of your flocked tree and storing your tree properly is key to keep it looking its best.
We talk more about how to properly store your Christmas tree later.
How to Flock a Christmas Tree
If you were to add flocking yourself, then there are different materials you can use such as snow spray, a snow kit or even materials such as desiccated coconut and white spray paint.
Flocking your Christmas tree is not as hard as it sounds, and can be a fun activity for the whole family prior to decorating.
First, start by buying your artificial tree and chosen flocking material. We find artificial snow spray or snow kit the easiest to use as it’s all ready to go. We love this Supa Snow Kit which you can purchase from Amazon.
This easy to use kit sticks to the tree after spraying the branches with water to make it damp. Start small with a light dusting (you could use a sieve) and once sifted onto the tree, leave it to completely dry. Repeat again until you achieve the desired results.
Watch this video for a tutorial on how to flock your Christmas tree:
| Note: If your tree is under warranty you will not be able to return your tree once you have added the artificial snow. And if your tree is pre-lit, be wary that the snow effect may damage the bulbs so proceed with caution. |
Have a read of this article from Balsam Hill on how to flock a Christmas tree using other materials such as shaving foam, soap shavings and desiccated coconut.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Store a Flocked Christmas Tree?
If possible, store your flocked Christmas tree upright with the branches kept outwards. Cover the tree with a blanket or plastic cover to protect it from any dust until the following festive season.
If you’ve used snow spray to flock your tree, dust off the branches (preferably outside to limit the spray getting into the air). A flocked tree has a tendency to attract dust.
As with all your Christmas decorations, it’s best to store your tree in a cool, dry place through the year. Somewhere it will also be untouched and moved is best.
What is the Best Colour Ribbon for a White Flocked Christmas Tree?
All colours look stunning on a flocked Christmas tree. We love red and green ribbon and ornaments against the striking white flocking.
But, also experiment with metallic colours or modern bright colours such as purples and blues which all look beautiful on a snowy effect tree.
Are Flocked Christmas Trees Safe for Cats and Dogs?
Artificial snow can be toxic and therefore harmful for pets if consumed. So, if you’re looking to buy a fake Christmas tree, we recommend choosing one without any flocking on.
To keep your tree safe for pets, we also advise steering away from any glass baubles and ornaments which could shatter and get into your cat’s or dog’s paws.
Are Flocked Christmas Trees Messy?
Due to the artificial snow, flocked Christmas trees can be messy if the snow has not been applied and secured properly.
Therefore, most people prefer to buy premade artificial flocked Christmas trees to save the hassle and time of flocking their tree themselves.
Of course, another benefit is that this artificial flocked tree will last for many years.
But if you are to flock your tree yourself, then it can be a messy process. Therefore, we’d recommend that you do this outside, or place old bedsheets around to protect your floors, walls and furniture.
Is Christmas Tree Flocking Toxic?
Commonly, Christmas tree flocking and made from cellulose and therefore is not toxic. However, despite the product not being toxic, it should definitely not be consumed.
How to Create a Flocked Christmas Tree?
There are different methods to create a flocked tree however the easiest way is to purchase artificial snow such as the Supa Snow Kit from Amazon.
Spray your branches with water to make it damp. Start small with a light dusting (you could use a sieve) and once sifted onto the tree, leave it to completely dry. Repeat again until you achieve the desired results.
Other materials you could use are shaving foam, white spray paint and desiccated coconut.
How to Decorate a Flocked Christmas Tree?
Due to the flocking on the tree, the easiest way to either leave it bare and natural-looking or to decorate with some warm LED lights.
Alternatively, decorate as you wish with ornaments and baubles, and just hang them onto the branches carefully. You may also want to delicately place your ornaments into gaps on the tree to avoid messing up the flocking.
Final Thoughts
Flocked Christmas trees, with their beautiful snowy branches, add such a festive touch to your tree. Done well, the flocking on a tree can look entirely natural and accentuate the snowy, cold winter and cosiness that is associated with Christmas.
Whether you buy your flocked Christmas tree or have a go at flocking yourself this year, we can guarantee you will love the flocked festive finish.
Related Christmas Tree Articles:
- When Should You Put Up A Christmas Tree?
- History of Christmas Trees: The Ultimate Guide
- The Meaning of an Upside Down Christmas Tree
- The Best Artificial Christmas Trees 2020
- The Best Christmas Tree Topper for Your Tree
- Christmas Tree Baubles: The Best Ultimate Guide
- The Best LED Christmas Lights in the US
