Artificial trees are now increasingly popular as a decorating choice for homes and offices. They are low-maintenance, long-lasting, and come in varied styles and sizes, but some of these artificial trees look sparse when compared to actual trees. If you've invested in an artificial tree and now want to make it look fuller and more natural, do not panic—it's much easier than you might think. With a few clever techniques and some attention to detail, you can transform your tree into a showpiece that could give the real thing a run for its money.
Why Make an Artificial Tree Look Fuller?
Artificial trees, whether they're for holiday decor or year-round greenery, can often appear sparse or too uniform. Making them look fuller and more natural achieves several benefits:
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: A fuller tree looks more luxurious and attractive.
- Realistic Look: A natural-looking tree blends seamlessly into your space.
- Personalization: You can adapt your tree to match your decor style or theme.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve that lush, realistic look.
1. Start by Fluffing the Branches
Fluffing the branches is the critical first step in making your artificial tree a fuller-looking display. Most of these trees are packed for shipping, which can leave the branches looking flat and unappealing.
How to Fluff Correctly:
- Separate Each Branch: Work on one branch at a time, starting at the bottom of the tree and working your way up.
- Fan Out the Tips: Spread the tips of each limb in a manner that creates depth to the form. Work at having them point in various directions to create the irregularity of natural foliage.
- Fill Gaps: Move branches around to fill any gaps or open spaces visible.
Use plenty of time fluffing, as this alone can make a big difference in how good a tree looks.
2. Add Greenery Picks and Branch Extensions
One of the simplest ways to make an artificial tree fuller is by adding greenery picks or branch extensions. These extra sprigs of faux greenery can be added to the tree, increasing its overall volume.
Picking the Right Picks:
- First, choose greenery that will match the color and texture of your tree.
- Mix in various types of foliage for a natural, layered effect. For example, you can mix pine picks with cedar or eucalyptus sprigs.
How to Use Them:
- Insert the picks into sparse areas of the tree.
- Angle the extensions to create a more natural, asymmetrical look.
- Use longer picks near the outer edges of the tree to give it a fuller silhouette.
3. Add Realistic Details
Attention to the tiniest of details is important so that your artificial tree comes out looking much more authentic.
Add Texture:
- Mix and Match Foliage:Mix various shapes and textures of leaves. In nature, trees seldom wear identical foliage; hence, changing the leaves will add further depth to the realistic appearance.
- Add Faux Branches or Bark: Wrap the tree trunk with a faux bark wrap, or use natural elements, like driftwood, to make the base look organic.
Add Imperfections:
- Slightly bend some branches so that they appear to grow in irregular patterns, like those found on a real tree.
- Avoid symmetrical arrangements; let some branches stick out unevenly.
4. Decorate Thoughtfully
For holiday or themed trees, decorations play a big part in creating a full and natural appearance.
Layer Decorations:
- Lights: Thread lights through the branches from the trunk outwards in a uniform manner. Do not just hang lights along the outer edges of the tree, as this will make the tree look flat.
- Garlands and Ribbons: Use loose garlands or ribbons around the tree to give it fullness and movement. Use wired ribbons that can be bent to achieve a more fluid look.
- Ornaments: Place the larger ornaments deeper in the tree to add depth and the smaller ornaments toward the tips.
Use Natural Elements:
- Feel free to use elements like pinecones, dried flowers, or artificial fruit to bring an organic feel.
- Try wood or metal accents to give your tree a more rustic, natural touch.
5. Work on the Base and Surroundings
The base of the tree is usually overlooked but plays a significant role in its appearance.
Hide the Base:
- Use a tree skirt, basket or ornamental pot to cover the stand. Make sure to choose one with materials and color that complements the tree.
- Put some filler around the base, such as fake moss, small plants, or presents wrapped for seasonal trees.
Anchor the Tree in Space:
- Use complementing décor to surround it—faux plants, lanterns, or fairy lights—that make it appear as a unit whole.
6. Lighting Enhancements
Lighting can make or break the realism of an artificial tree. The right lighting setup creates warmth and makes the tree full.
Tips for Lighting:
- Use warm white lights to achieve a cozy, natural glow.
- Layer the lights deep within the tree and onto the outer branches for added depth.
- Consider adding LED candles or string lights in adjacent decor to enhance overall ambiance.
7. Use Spray or Paint for Realism
For trees lacking depth of color, apply sprays or paints to enhance their realism.
Try These Options:
- Frost Spray: Spray the artificial snow or frost spray lightly on the tips for an appearance of winter.
- Green Paint: Use a matte green spray paint to touch up faded or unevenly colored spots.
8. Regular Maintenance
Artificial trees, just like real ones, need a bit of TLC in order to remain in top form.
Keep It Clean:
- Dust the branches occasionally with a soft brush or microfiber cloth.
- For large trees, a handheld vacuum is effective using a brush attachment.
Re-Fluff Annually :
- Take some time to fluff and re-shape the tree when it comes out of storage
Final Thoughts
An artificial tree need not lack life or beauty. A little effort and some imagination, and you can have your tree looking full and verdant and true to life. By fluffing the branches and adding more greenery, along with carefully chosen decorations and realism, follow these steps to get a beautiful transformation.
Whether it's a holiday centerpiece or a year-round statement piece, your artificial tree can be the crown jewel in your decor—rich, natural, and utterly enchanting.
