With the holiday season drawing closer, it's just about that time to begin planning your holiday decorating and selecting your Christmas tree. Although the idea of a real tree is appealing, there are a number of drawbacks that come with it: tough transport, messy pine needles, and the need for watering. An artificial tree can last you much longer when stored properly, saving you the cost of your next Christmas tree. and far less fuss when setting up for the holiday season. Plus, modern artificial trees look realistic and attractive, offering a range of colors, shapes, and designs, including flocked finishes. The addition of a flocked Christmas tree is a wonderful way to add some wintery beauty in your house and achieve the look of a snow-dusted tree indoors. Read this guide to find out more about frosted Christmas trees.

Tip!

Want to learn more about your Christmas tree options? Read our guide: Christmas Tree Types for a rundown of all Christmas tree types, from real to artificial.

In This Guide

What Is a Flocked Christmas Tree?
Flocked Christmas Tree Lighting Types
Flocked Christmas Tree Decorations

What Is a Flocked Christmas Tree?

Now you may be wondering: What is a flocked Christmas tree? The answer is quite simple: A flocked Christmas tree is an artificial Christmas tree that has been treated (by a method called flocking) to look as though it's covered in freshly fallen snow.

Flocking is a method of attaching tiny synthetic fibers to a surface in order to create a soft texture. Flocking is an older technique that originated in the 1800s using materials such as flour or cotton which rose in popularity (with new artificial ingredients) during the 1950s. This process is not limited to Christmas trees alone – it is also used in fashion, decor, and crafts.

The flocking material is sprayed onto the branches of an artificial Christmas tree to make it appear as though it is covered in snow. A flocked Christmas tree can have the appearance of delicately frosted branches or heavily laden boughs. Though it is possible to flock your Christmas tree yourself, most people prefer to purchase already flocked Christmas trees. To this day, these trees remain a firm favorite among families around the world, especially among those looking for a white Christmas in locations that don't get snow in winter.

Tip!

Flocked Christmas trees are likely to shed the first time you take them out of the box. Be sure to keep a vacuum or a broom on hand to clean up any debris that may fall off during setup.

Flocked Christmas Tree Lighting Types

Whether you trim the tree with your own strings of lights or choose a pre-lit flocked tree, a snow covered tree with lights looks extra beautiful because of how the frosting softens the light and reflects its own unique glow.

Unlit Flocked Christmas Trees: If you are in the market for a no-frills option, it is possible to buy an unlit flocked Christmas tree. With no lighting built into them, these trees give you two options when it comes to decorating: You can either leave the tree unlit, or you can string your own Christmas lights to get the exact effect you are looking for.

Pre-Lit Flocked Christmas Trees: If you don't want to drape Christmas lights yourself, pre-lit flocked Christmas trees offer a quick way to bring Christmas ambience to your home. These pre-lit trees require only that you plug in their attached cable to light them up. Pre-lit flocked Christmas trees also have a range of lighting color options including clear and white lights for simple illumination, multicolored lights to promote a jovial mood, and even a combination of white and multicolored lights for a truly festive feeling.

Flocked Christmas Tree Decorations

A large part of getting into the holiday spirit is the decorating. What would Christmas be without the wreaths, mistletoe, and garlands? Once you have decked the halls, it's time to consider your tree. How you adorn your flocked Christmas tree is totally up to you. You can leave it natural and let the flocking do the talking, or you can use the wintery hues as a neutral background to offset your favorite brightly colored ornaments. To learn more about decorating a Christmas tree, read our guide Christmas Tree Decoration Ideas.

Tip!

A Christmas tree should typically be 6”–12" shorter than your ceiling. You will also need to consider the height of the tree topper you wish to use. For more on tree toppers, read our guide 11 Classic Tree Topper Ideas.

You Might Also Like

However you choose to set your winter scene, choose a flocked Christmas tree for your perfect seasonal decoration inspiration.