What Is a Flocked Christmas Tree? Everything You Should Know About This Holiday Staple

A Christmas tree is the centerpiece of holiday decor. And while we can’t control the weather and create the idyllic snowfall scene every year, it is possible to emulate the look thanks to flocked Christmas trees.

These frosty trees were first imagined by sprinkling soap flakes and water over evergreens to mimic the appearance of freshly fallen snow. Thankfully, now there are easier and more realistic ways to create this winter wonderland scene at home. Here’s everything you need to know about flocked Christmas trees.

What Is a Flocked Christmas Tree?

A flocked Christmas tree is a tree—real or artificial—that is dusted with artificial snow to give it a wintry appearance. This is usually achieved by applying synthetic dust or powder to the ends of the branches.

The process can be DIYed using kits, mists, and self-adhesive powders. There are also pre-made flocked trees for purchase that have faux snow professionally applied and sealed so they can be used year after year.

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How Do I Flock My Christmas Tree?

1. Set up your space. Flocking your own Christmas tree can get messy, so you’ll ideally want to work outdoors. If that’s not possible, you can work in a larger indoor space like the garage or basement. Just be sure to set a drop cloth or tarp on the floor to capture any loose powder.
2. Wear appropriate gear. A mask and protective eyewear can be helpful since dust or mist will be flying around. You’ll also want to wear clothes that you’re okay with getting powder on. If you’re working indoors, ensure there’s proper ventilation.
3. Dampen the tree. Mist the tree with water to help the faux snow stick to the branches. It should be damp but not dripping.
4. Fill your sifter. If you’re using powder, place some of it into a sifter. You can use a big one generally and a smaller one for more precision. Make sure the sifter isn’t completely full so the snow doesn’t fall from the sides and create clumps.
5. Start applying from the top. Sift the snow on the top branches to start, as some of it will cascade down onto the lower branches, creating a natural snow fall look. Focus on the outer portion of the branches one section at a time to make it look realistic.
6. Add more layers. To make it look like a proper snowfall, you can add more layers of powder in certain areas depending on how heavy you want the snow to look. It’s always better to start with a light dusting and gradually add more.
7. Mist the tree again. To make the flocking stick, lightly dampen the powder once you have the desired look.
8. Make it shine. You can add glitter or mica powder over the snow to make it glisten, if you like.
9. Allow for drying time. Let the powder dry for eight to 24 hours so the snow stays in place and doesn’t shift around.
10. Decorate the tree. Once the tree is fully dry, it’s time to decorate! Hang ornaments, string lights, and your favorite accessories on the tree as usual. Note that some powder may come off as you do this.

Are Flocked Trees Messy?

Flocked trees can be messier than unflocked artificial or real trees if you are doing the flocking yourself. When applying the powder, the material often disperses throughout the space so it’s helpful to set up a drop cloth or tarp underneath and around the tree.

Some of the powder may come off when putting on ornaments and decorations as well, or when setting up the tree again in following years. However, pre-flocked trees tend to be pretty tidy and can be reused year after year without creating much mess.