How to Flock a Christmas Tree
Learn the technique of flocking and see how it can transform a basic, artificial Christmas tree into a snow-covered standout.
So, what is flocking? Flocking is applying a powder to artificial greenery or trees to make them look like they're covered in snow. Flocking transforms any plain, boring faux Christmas tree into one that looks straight out of a winter wonderland. Flocking a Christmas tree is the perfect way to breathe new life into an old tree or even make a cheap tree look more upscale. Using flocking powder to transform trees is a simple and quick process with a big and long-lasting payoff.
Tools and Materials
- flocking powder
- wire mesh sieve
- dropcloth
- spray bottle
Jennie Andrews
1. Prep Workspace
Begin by protecting your workspace. Lay out a tarp or drop cloth to catch excess powder that will fall from the tree as you work. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sticky residue and a mask to protect your lungs from small particles. Fill the mesh sieve with flocking powder and fill the spray bottle with water.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
2. Apply Flocking Powder
Set up the bottom section of the tree and spread apart the branches to fluff. Working on one section at a time allows you to apply the powder deep into the tree near the trunk. Work from the inside out and bottom to top. With a spray bottle filled with water, mist a small section of the tree. Shake or tap the strainer with the flocking powder while holding it above the wet section. The powder will stick to the moisture, creating the look of natural, new-fallen snow. The higher above each area you hold the strainer, the lighter the coverage will be. Cover each branch lightly near the trunk and more heavily on the edges of the branches, mimicking how snow lies on a real tree. The flocking powder is buildable. Simply mist branches again and repeat until you reach the look you desire. Be sure to stand back and view the tree from a distance, looking for gaps or bare spots. Pro tip: Keep the water away from the strainer. Getting the strainer wet will make the flocking stick to it, sealing the holes and preventing it from working.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
3. Seal the Flocking
When you’ve achieved the desired look and amount of flocking, mist the entire section with water. The water seals the powder onto each branch. Look for loose powder by gently tapping each branch. If it has been sealed properly, no “snow” will fall from the branch.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
4. Continue Upward
Add the next section of the tree and repeat the steps. Continue to focus more snow on higher and outermost branches. Once you have worked your way to the top of the tree, if you still desire additional flocking on some outer branches, gently shake flocking directly from the bag or shake out over the side of the sieve.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
5. Mist Again
Lightly mist the entire tree one more time to fully seal the flocking. Let dry overnight. The flocking should harden. Flocked trees can be touched up with a little bit of powder each year if necessary, but the flocking is quite durable and will last a long time. The tree can be stored in your usual manner.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
6. Enjoy
Flocking powder not only makes a big impact on older or cheaper trees but flocking is also fun. You will surely love the look of your new snowy tree and want to use your new skills to flock more trees, garlands or wreaths.
Jennie Andrews
