20 Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas

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Quick answer: 20 Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas. This guide gives 20 ideas in 4 sections: Classic and Traditional Looks; Rustic and Natural Looks; Pastel, Pretty and Modern Looks; Small Trees, Kids and Budget Ideas.

Written by the PinkDux Team. Last updated October 2026.

A beautifully dressed tree is the heart of a cosy Christmas living room, and you do not need a huge budget or a designer eye to get a lovely result. It is mostly about choosing a look and sticking with it.

Here are twenty ideas grouped by style, from traditional red and gold to soft pastels, tiny tabletop trees and a tree the children can decorate all by themselves. Pick one, or borrow bits from several.

Classic and Traditional Looks

Timeless trees never go out of style, and they are easy to build up year after year.

• Red and gold baubles: A mix of matt and shiny baubles in red and gold looks rich on a green tree. Use three sizes, and tuck the biggest ones deeper in for depth.
• Tartan ribbon bows: Cut lengths of ribbon and tie big bows onto the ends of branches. Wired ribbon holds its shape best and looks smart for very little money.
• Warm white fairy lights: Start with lights before anything else. Aim for roughly 100 bulbs per foot of tree, and weave them in and out of branches rather than just wrapping the outside.
• Glass icicle ornaments: Hang these on the tips of branches where they catch the light. They suit adult trees best, so keep them higher up if little ones or pets are around.
• A proper tree topper: A star or angel finishes the tree. Check that the fitting suits your tree tip, and secure it with a little florist wire if it leans.

Rustic and Natural Looks

If you love a countryside feel, these textures bring warmth without any fuss.

• Wooden bead garland: Drape chunky wooden beads in loose swags from branch to branch. It adds texture and pairs beautifully with plain white lights.
• Dried orange slices: Dry thin slices in a low oven for a few hours, then thread with string. They smell wonderful and look pretty against dark green needles.
• Pine cone ornaments: Collect cones on a dry walk, let them dry out indoors, then tie them on with twine. Brush the tips with white paint for a frosted effect.
• Jute twine and tags: Wrap a loose twine garland around the tree and hang little kraft tags. It is cheap, tidy and goes with almost any other colour scheme.
• Burlap tree skirt: A hessian style skirt hides the stand and gives a country look. Fluff it out around the base before the presents go underneath.

Pastel, Pretty and Modern Looks

Not everyone wants red and green, and a softer palette can feel fresh and calm.

• Blush pink and white: Choose soft pink baubles with white and pearl accents. It looks lovely on a white or flocked tree and suits a bedroom or hallway.
• Pearl bead strands: Long pearl garlands look elegant and catch the light. Loop them generously, letting them dip lower in the middle of each swoop.
• Pampas and dried grass stems: Tuck neutral dried stems into the branches for a modern boho feel. Keep them away from candles and any heat source.
• Matching velvet ribbon: Plush velvet ribbon in one colour gives a very luxe finish. Use it as a garland or as bows, repeating the colour through the room.
• Mirrored mini ornaments: Small mirrored shapes scatter light round the room at night. They work well on slim or artificial trees where space is tight.

Small Trees, Kids and Budget Ideas

Great trees come in every size, and some of the best ones are decorated by the smallest hands.

• Tabletop tree: A little tree on a sideboard or window sill suits flats and small rooms. Group a few mini trees of different heights for a pretty display.
• Shatterproof baubles for children: Let the kids dress their own low branches with plastic baubles. They are safe to knock about, and any wobbly placement adds charm.
• Felt ornaments: Soft felt stars, hearts and gingerbread shapes are gentle on little hands. Skip tiny parts and beads if there are children under three in the house.
• Paper chains: The classic budget decoration. Children can cut and glue strips, and a long chain wrapped around the tree looks cheerful and colourful.
• Mini tree lights on a battery pack: Battery lights are ideal for small trees and keep cables out of the way. Choose a timer function so they switch off by themselves.

Helpful links and further reading

A few trusted places to find out more.

• Recycle Now: Find out what you can recycle and where, including wrapping and cards.
• WRAP: An environmental charity with ideas for cutting waste and food waste.
• Woodland Trust: guide to British trees: Identify trees, leaves and woodland wildlife on your walks.

Frequently asked questions

When should I put up my Christmas tree?

There is no rule. Many families do it at the start of December, or on the first weekend of Advent. Choose a day when everyone can help and make it a cosy occasion.

How many baubles do I need?

As a rough guide, allow about 10 to 12 per foot of tree for a full look, then add more if you like it busy. Fewer, larger ones can also look smart.

How do I stop my tree looking messy?

Choose a limited colour palette, put lights on first, and hang larger items inside and smaller ones outside. Stand back often and fix gaps as you go.

More ideas you might like

• Homemade Christmas Decorations
• Christmas Lights Ideas
• Cosy Winter Living Room Ideas
• Christmas Table Decoration Ideas