How to Decorate the Christmas tree

One of the best ways to bring Christmas into your living room is by putting up a Christmas tree covered in decorations.

So first start with the tree,   once on its stand or in a container leave to stand to give the branches a chance to settle, I like to leave it overnight. If like me you are using an artificial tree you will need to spread out the branches.  After the tree has settled then position in the place the tree will stay for the holidays. Always start with the lights; this is the most important basics stage and the one most people hate,

  but I love this part as if you get this right your whole tree will be right. The fact is nothing can enhance the design of your tree more than properly placed lights, so take your time and grim and bear it! The lighting of the Christmas tree is very important. The more light there is available, the more effective your tree will look. Lights place on the tree will brighten up the space where there are placed, adding depth as well as sparkle.

Next you add the tinsels; I push it right into the middle of the tree. Starting at the top and working down the tree, I use thin at the top working down to thick tinsels at the bottom.

Now for the garlands of beads, garlands can be draped on the tree in several different ways, the more traditional way is the swag pattern which is more formal and the way I like to do it.

Now for the real fun bit, adding the ornaments, it is at this stage when the tree takes shape and the true character of the tree comes out. Hang one type of ornament at a time such as various-sized balls, scattering them around the branches. I then add droplets and then hearts. Repeat with other decorations, one type at a time. Hang larger ornaments towards the bottom of the tree, and graduate the sizes up towards the top where you would place smaller ones.

This year I have used red, gold and brown balls. Next I add pine cones some dusted with snow. Then I like to use birds, adding them to the tree with red berries.

I even add candy canes,

and then comes the special ornaments,

the one offs, the ones that mean something to me.

These are what make your family tree, yours. And so the finishing touch is the gold star on the top.

Thats our family Christmas tree. Hope you enjoy dressing your tree as much as I did ours.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New year.