How To Flock a Christmas Tree: An Expert Guide to Decorating With Artificial Snow

There’s something magical about snow falling softly from the sky, especially around Christmas time. Unfortunately, not everyone gets to enjoy that during those months. This is where flocking a Christmas tree comes in handy, as it captures the essence of a winter wonderland even if it does not snow where you are. In this guide, we share four flocking methods that can help you create a dreamy winter scene for the holidays.

General Precautions and Tips

How do you flock a Christmas tree at home? Follow these tips before getting started.

Warranty Disclaimer

Any damage that results from flocking or altering your Balsam Hill artificial Christmas tree in any way will void your warranty. For more information, read our warranty policy.

Safety First

Keep flocking materials away from children and pets. While most are non-toxic, some sprays may contain potentially hazardous chemicals. If your tree has lights, thoroughly check for broken bulbs and frayed wires to prevent electrical hazards.

Wear Protective Gear

Wear a mask, gloves, and safety goggles to prevent inhalation, ingestion, or direct contact when making and applying the flocking mixture.

Work in a Well-Ventilated Area

Flocking Christmas trees can be messy, so work outdoors or in the garage with the door open if you have the space and the weather permits. Lay down a tarp, drop cloth, or painter’s plastic to catch residual flock.

Do a Patch Test

Test your flock by applying it to a small portion of the tree first to make sure you can achieve your desired look.

Fluff Your Tree Before Flocking

Shape the branches before applying any flocking. Check our Guide to Shaping Your Tree for step-by-step instructions.

How To Flock a Christmas Tree With Pre-Made Flocking

Decorating with store-bought Christmas tree flocking is the easiest way to give evergreens a snow-inspired makeover. We recommend using a bagged flock instead of a spray can for a more realistic look. Here’s how to flock your tree using pre-made flocking.

Steps

1. Dampen the entire Christmas tree - Place your tree in the middle of your painter’s plastic or drop cloth, then use a spray bottle to mist the branch tips. This helps the flocking stick to the needles.
2. Flock your Christmas tree - Starting at the top, sprinkle handfuls of flocking onto the branch tips. Let it cascade onto the lower needles, then add more until you’re happy with the look. Avoid using too much flock so the branches do not droop.
3. Dampen the entire tree again - Mist your tree once more to help the flocking adhere to the needles. Spray the water 12 to 14 inches away from the tree to avoid disturbing your design.
4. Let your flocking dry - Allow the tree to dry for 24 to 48 hours without touching it. Once completely dry, bring it indoors and add your ornaments. You can also apply a second coating to enhance the snowy finish.

How To Flock Your Christmas Tree With Soap Shavings

This is a popular choice for DIY Christmas tree flock because it is cost-efficient and easy to find. It can also be customized to fit any decorating theme, such as adding glitter or food colouring. Here is how to flock a Christmas tree using soap shavings.

Materials

• 2 cups white soap shavings
• 2/3 cup cornstarch slurry or white glue
• 4 tbsp warm water
• Food colouring or glitter (optional)

Steps

1. Create the mixture - Combine the soap shavings and the cornstarch slurry or white glue in a mixer on medium speed. Add the water and the food colouring or glitter. Beat the mixture until it forms stiff peaks with a consistency similar to nougat.
2. Flock your tree - Use a paintbrush to scoop a dollop of the mixture, and apply it only to the needle tips. Start at the top of the tree, then work your way down. For a more realistic look, allow the foam to stay in clusters or drip from the higher branches.
3. Let your flocking dry - Allow the tree to dry for 8 to 24 hours, depending on the size of the tree and how much flock you applied.

How To Flock a Christmas Tree With Shaving Cream

Another option is to use shaving cream. It already has the stiff consistency needed to mimic drops of snow, which cuts down your prep time. Follow the instructions below on how to flock an artificial Christmas tree with shaving cream.

Materials

• 4 to 6 cans of shaving cream
• 2/3 cup white glue
• Food colouring or glitter (optional)

Steps

1. Create the mixture - Blend the shaving cream with the white glue in a mixer at medium speed. Continue mixing until stiff peaks form. Add food colouring or glitter if desired.
2. Flock your tree - Apply the mixture to the needle tips at the top, then work your way down. Allow the foam to stay in clusters or drip toward the lower needles for a more natural look.
3. Let your flocking dry - Allow the tree to dry for 8 to 24 hours, depending on the size of the tree and the amount of flock you applied.

How To Flock a Christmas Tree With Desiccated Coconut

Choose a coconut-based flock as a hypoallergenic option, but keep in mind that it is perishable compared to soap or cream-based mixtures. Make sure to use a strong binding agent to improve its shelf life and help the flakes stick together. Here is how to flock an artificial tree or a real evergreen using desiccated coconut.

Materials

• 1 lb desiccated coconut
• 2 cups cornstarch slurry
• Food colouring or glitter (optional)

Steps

1. Create the mixture - Pour the desiccated coconut into a large mixing bowl. Gradually add 2 tbsp cornstarch slurry to the flakes until all are coated with the liquid, breaking up clumps with your hands. Add food colouring or glitter if desired.
2. Fluff the mixture - Introduce air into the mixture by continuously fluffing it, making sure it stays loose and not pasty.
3. Flock your tree - Using your hands, sprinkle the mixture from the top of the tree. It should naturally cascade onto the lower branches. Continue until you achieve your desired look.
4. Let your flocking dry - Allow the tree to dry for 8 to 24 hours, depending on the size of the tree and the amount of flock used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here we answer common questions about flocking a Christmas tree.

What Is the Best Way To Flock a Christmas Tree?

The ideal way to flock a Christmas tree is by using a specialized flocking powder designed for this purpose. You apply it by misting the tree with water and then sifting the powder onto the branches, which creates a durable, snow-like coating that adheres well. This method provides the most realistic and long-lasting results.

Can You Use Spray Snow To Flock a Christmas Tree?

Spray snow can be used to add a snowy effect, but it is not the same as true flocking. It has a different texture, is often less durable, and may chip or flake off more easily over time. For a lasting, professional-looking finish, a dedicated flocking powder is a better choice.

How Do You Keep Flocking from Falling Off?

To keep flocking from falling off, it is important to ensure proper application by misting the tree with water before and after applying the flocking powder. This activates the adhesive in the powder and allows it to bond securely to the branches. Once fully dried, the flocking forms a firm coating that resists shedding.

How Do You Make Homemade Flocking?

Common methods for making homemade flocking involve using household ingredients such as soap shavings or shaving cream mixed with cornstarch and glue. While this can create a snowy appearance, it may not have the same durability or long-lasting adhesion as commercial flocking products.