Author Archives: Lou

Scandinavian Christmas Trees: Why Sheepskin Rugs Work as Skirts

A picture of a sheepskin with the text sheepskin rugs make perfect Christmas tree skirts.

When it comes to holiday decorating, Scandinavian style has a way of making everything feel calm, warm and effortlessly elegant.

One of the simplest ways to bring this look into your home is by swapping the traditional Christmas tree skirt for something a little cozier – a sheepskin rug.

Sheepskin rugs make perfect Christmas tree skirts because they provide a luxurious, cozy and warm look that fits the winter and holiday theme. Their fluffy texture adds elegance and texture to holiday decor.

A Natural Fit for Scandinavian Style

Scandinavian Christmas decor is all about minimalism, natural material and layers of soft texture. Think warm whites, pine greens, flickering candlelight and neutral tones. A sheepskin rug fits beautifully into this aesthetic because it adds instant softness without distracting from the tree itself. Instead of a busy pattern or heavy fabric, the gentle fluff of a sheepskin rug creates a “snowy forest floor” effect that feels both organic and inviting.

Warmth & Texture Without the Clutter

Unlike a traditional tree skirt, which can sometimes look bulky or be hard to arrange neatly, a sheepskin rug drapes effortlessly around the base of your tree. It hides the stand, frames your decorations and brings visual balance to the room. The texture adds warmth – literally and visually – making the entire tree area feel more grounded and cozy.

Flexible Styling Options

Sheepskin rugs are surprisingly versatile. You can:

  • Drape one piece around the base for a soft, snow-like effect.
  • Layer two or more smaller rugs for larger trees or a fuller look.
  • Fold or bunch the edges to create an interntional, natural shape.

You can also find faux sheepskin options if you prefer an animal-friendly alternative. They look just as beautiful and are often easier to clean.

A Practical Alternative Too

Beyond aesthetics, sheepskin rugs are practical. Many are machine-washable or can be gently handwashed, making cleanup after the festive season much easier than with bulky tree skirts. They’re also reusable year-round simply repurpose them as a coxy throw on a chair or under a coffee table.

Finishing Touches to Complete the Look

To enhance the Scandinavian vibe, keep your tree decorations simple:

  • Neutral ornaments in white, wood or soft metallics
  • Warm fairy lights or soft gold string lights
  • A few handcrafted details, like wooden stars or straw ornaemnts

Pairing your sheepskin rug with understated decor creates a look that’s timeless, elegant and beautifully simple.

Images of Christmas trees using sheepskin rugs as Christmas tree skirts

Easy Steps to Transform Your Green Tree into a Flocked Tree

A step by step guide to flocking your Christmas tree

Flocked Christmas trees with their beautiful snow-kissed branches add instant winter magic to any home. If you already have a green artificial tree, however, there’s no need to buy a new one.

You can flock your tree yourself with just a few simple steps. Keep reading to find out what is flocking, what you’ll need to flock your tree and then a step by step guide. Be sure to read to the end before starting as there are some tips at the end.

What is Flocking?

Flocking is the process of applying a snow-like coasting to your tree to create a winter wonderland effect. It can be light and delicate or thick and snowy, depending on the look you want.

What You’ll Need

  • Flocking powder or spray (look for non-toxic options)
  • A spray bottle of water
  • Drop cloth or tarp
  • Gloves and a mask
  • A broom or vacuum for cleanup

Step-by-Step Flocking Guide

  1. Set Up Your Tree
    Assemble and fluff your green tree first. Lay down a drop cloth to protect floors from overspray.
  2. Lightly Mist the Branches
    Flocking adheres best to damp surfaces. Use a spray bottle to mist the branches evenly.
  3. Apply the Flocking
    Sprinkle flocking powder or spray it on the tree, starting from the top and working down. Go slowly to control the coverage.
  4. Layer for Your Desired Look
    For a light dusting, one layer may be enough. For a thicker, snowy finish, add a second layer after the first has set slightly.
  5. Let It Dry Completely
    Allow your flocked tree to dry for 12-24 hours before decorating. This prevents clumps and ensures your ornaments stay clean.
  6. Optional: Seal the Flocking
    A light misting of water can help set the flocking and minimize shedding throughout the season.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors if possible.
  • Shake off any loose flocking before bringing the tree inside.
  • Less is more – start light and build up if needed.

Flocking your own tree is an affordable and fun way to refresh your holiday decor. Plus, you can customize the snow effect to match your unique holiday style.

Minimalist Christmas Trees: Decorating with Less

Some examples of minimalist Christmas trees

There’s something timeless and elegant about simplicity and nowhere is that more true than at Christmas. In a world where trees are often dripping with tinsel and bursting with ornaments, the minimalist approach is quietly making a big impact.

A minimalist Christmas tree is all about thoughtful restraint: fewer decorations, more intention and a calm, clean look that lets the beauty of the tree shine through.

Why Minimalism Works So Well at Christmas

Minimalism doesn’t mean boring. By stripping away the excess, the focus turns to the shape, texture and presence of the tree itself. A minimalist tree can bring:

  • A sense of calm in an otherwise busy season.
  • A modern, elegant aesthetic that works with almost any home decor.
  • Less clutter, making it easier to decorate and clean up.
  • Sustainable decorating, with fewer items to buy and store.

Choosing the Right Tree

A minimalist tree often looks best when the tree itself is beautiful – whether it’s a real fir or a well-designed artificial tree. Consider:

  • Sparse or natural-looking branches , which give the tree a Scandinavian vibe.
  • A neutral base or simple tree skirt, like sheepskin, burlap or woven rattan.
  • A slim silhouette, which looks especially striking in smaller spaces.

A Few Christmas Tree Suggestions

These trees (below) from Amazon would be great for your Minimalist Christmas Tree.

 Aspen Fir Sparse Design Christmas Tree Snow Flocked Skinny Pencil Christmas Tree Pre-lit Norwegian Spruce Christmas Tree

Key Minimalist Decor Elements

  1. Simple Lighting – Stick to warm white or soft golden lights. A single strand of evenly spaced lights can be more striking than layers of flashing color.
  2. Natural Textures – Dried orange slices, wooden beads, or a touch of greenery can create a rustic-minimalist style.
  3. Limited Color Palette – One or two colors, like white and gold or green and silver, keep the look cliean.
  4. Negative Space – Don’t feel the need to cover every branch. Leaving space between decorations allows each one to stand out.

Tips for Pulling it All Together

  • Choose decorations intentionally, not implusively.
  • Use repetition – for example, identical baubles or paper stars – for a cohesive look.
  • Keep your tree topper simple: a star, a bow or nothing at all.

Minimalist decorating proves that sometimes less really is more. With the right approach, your tree can look serene, sophisticated and unforgettable.

How and Why You Need to be Fluffing Your Artificial Tree

The how and why of fluffing your tree

A beautiful Christmas tree doesn’t just happen – it’s crafted. One of the biggest differences between a tree that looks store-brought ad one that looks show-stopping is fluffing.

This simple step can completely transform the look of your artificial tree, making it appear fuller, more natural and far more magical.

In this post we’ll talk about what is fluffing, how you fluff your tree and why you need to fluff your artificial Christmas tree annually.

What is Fluffing?

Fluffing means separating and spreading out each branch and tip of your artificial tree to fill in gaps and create a natural, layered look It’s the key to making your tree look like a lush evergreen rather than a flat, boxy shape.

Note: Fluffing is important for all artificial trees whether they’re prelit or unlit.

Why Fluffing Matters

As more and more people switch to Artificial trees, it’s even more important to be aware of the importance of fluffing. One of the reasons that people are making the switch is because the tree remains looking as good when it’s time to take it down as it was when it went up.

  • Creates fullness: Even the best artificial trees arrive slightly compressed from storage. Fluffing restores their shape.
  • Hides gaps: Properly arranged branches minimize empty spaces and make lights and decorations shine.
  • Makes decorating easier: Once fluffed, your ornaments will hang beautifully without getting lost in awkward gaps.

Step-by-Step Fluffing Guide

  1. Assemble the tree section by section
    Start at the bottom and work your way up. If your tree is pre-lit, plug it in as you go so you can see how the lights fall
  2. Separate each branch
    Gently pull the tips away from the center. Fan them out like a starburst – some upward, some outward and some downward – to create a natural shape.
  3. Fill in the gaps
    Angle some tips diagonally to cover open spaces. Step back often to check your progress.
  4. Work with gloves (optional)
    Even though artificial tree branches are softer than real trees, they can be scratchy. Wearing soft gloves can make the process more comfortable.
  5. Shape the top last
    Give extra attention to the top of the tree, as this area tends to get flattened in storage.

Pro Tips

  • Fluff early: Fluff your tree as soon as you set it up. It sets the stage for everything else.
  • Fluff annually: Even if you store it carefully, fluffing is needed every year.
  • Take your time: A good fluff can take 30-45 minutes – but the results are worth it.

Once fluffed, your tree will look fuller, more realistic and ready for its close-up in every holiday photo.

More Christmas Tree Tips & Inspiration

Check out all of these examples of artificial Christmas trees - it really shows how much better they all look when they've been fluffed before decorating.

Top 10 Reasons More & More People are Switching to Artificial Trees

Selection of different artificial Christmas trees

For decades, real Christmas trees have been a beloved holiday tradition. But in recent years artificial Christmas trees have surged in popularity and it’s easy to see why.

From convenience and cost savings to stunning realism, artificial trees have come a long way.

The main reason I, personally, have artificial Christmas trees is that they look as good when you take them down as they did when you put them up!

Here are the top 10 reasons more and more people have chosen to make the switch from real to artificial trees.

1. They’re Incredibly Realistic

Modern artificial trees look stunningly lifelike, often modeled after real pine, fir or spruce varieties. Many feature textured needles, layered branches and natural shapes that mimic the real thing.

2. Easy Setup

No more wrestling with tree stands, trimming trunks or hauling a heavy tree into the house. Artificial trees assemble quickly and pre-lit options make decorating even faster.

3. Low Maintenance

No watering. No dropping needles, which means no daily vacuuming. No worrying about keeping the tree fresh through a hot December. Artificial trees stay picture-perfect all season long.

4. Reusable Year After Year

A quality artificial tree can last for a decade or ore, saving you the cost (and hassle) of buying a new one every year.

5. Allergy-Friendly

For many households, real trees can trigger allergies or asthma. Artificial trees are a great alternative for sensitive noses.

6. Pet-Safe

The material used in artificial trees are often softer and less prickly than real pine needles which means they are less likely to irritate your pet’s skin should they rub against them.

7. Eco Considerations

While real trees are biodegradable, artificial trees can reduce annual waste if they’re reused over many years.

8. Perfect for Any Space

Artificial trees come in every shape and size – from slim pencil trees for small spaces to grand, full-bodied centerpieces for open-plan living rooms. As they’re not affected by the heat, cold or air conditioning they can be used in any climate (not everyone experiences the cold on Christmas Day!)

9. Cost Effective in the Long Run

Though the upfront cost is higher, an artificial tree pays for itself over time. Many families recoup the cost in just 2-3 years.

10. You Don’t Need to Have a Green Tree

When it comes to artificial trees you can choose to have colors other than green, the most common artificial trees are green, white or flocked. However, there are lots of different colors to choose from like black, pink, red, silver and even multi-colored ones.

Bonus: You can set up your tree as early as you want without worrying about it drying out. That means more time to enjoy the magic of the season.

10 Reasons to Switch to an Artificial Christmas Tree.