How to Flock a Christmas Tree

There’s something about a snowy Christmas tree that feels undeniably cozy—like stepping into a winter wonderland without having to brave the freezing temperatures. But those pre-flocked trees you see in stores? They’re pricey and often don’t match the exact look you’re envisioning. That’s where learning how to flock a Christmas tree yourself comes in handy. It’s a creative way to customize your tree while keeping costs down. Plus, it’s surprisingly satisfying to watch your tree transform into a frosted masterpiece.

Whether you’re starting with a full-sized artificial tree or just sprucing up an old wreath, this guide will walk you through every step of the process, including tips to minimize mess (because flocking is messy) and ensure your tree looks snow-kissed rather than over-powdered.

Not ready to flock your own Christmas tree yet? You can always buy a pre-flocked one!

What You’ll Need to Flock a Christmas Tree

Before starting, make sure you have all the essentials. Flocking isn’t complicated, but having all the supplies on hand is key to avoiding frustration halfway through.

1. Flocking powder
2. A spray bottle filled with water
3. A sifter or strainer
4. Protective covering for your floor or workspace
5. Mask and gloves (optional)
6. Your tree, wreath, or garland

Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace

Flocking can get messy—think powdered sugar levels of mess but multiplied. To save yourself the hassle of cleaning later, set up your workspace with a sturdy surface and plenty of room to move around. Lay down a tarp or sheet to catch any stray flocking powder. If possible, do this outside on a calm day, as even a slight breeze can scatter the powder everywhere.

For artificial trees, fluff out the branches to ensure the flocking reaches every nook and cranny. If you’re working with a pre-lit tree, don’t worry—the lights will still shine through the flocking once it’s applied.

Step 2: Start Spraying and Sifting

To achieve that natural snow-dusted effect, always work from the top of your tree down. Start by lightly spraying the upper branches with water. The goal here isn’t to soak the tree but to dampen it enough for the flocking to stick.

Once the section is damp, take your sifter, scoop in some flocking powder, and gently shake it over the tree. Think of it like dusting powdered sugar over a cake—you want an even, delicate coating. After sifting, spray the same section with another light mist of water to set the flocking. This step activates the adhesive in the powder, creating a sticky, snow-like texture.

Repeat this process section by section, moving from the top to the bottom of the tree.

Expert tip: It’s better to build up layers gradually than to dump too much flocking powder all at once for an even, natural look.

Step 3: Adjust for the Perfect Look

As you go, step back occasionally to see how the tree is shaping up. If you want a heavier snow effect, layer on more flocking by repeating the spray-and-sift process. For a lighter dusting, keep the application minimal, letting some green show through for contrast.

If certain spots feel bare or hard to reach, use the sifter to direct flocking into those areas. For smaller details, like filling in the interior branches, you can sprinkle flocking powder directly without the sifter. Just make sure to spray water afterward to help it stick.

Expert tip: If you’re working outdoors, avoid windy days. Even a slight breeze can turn your flocking session into a frustrating mess.

Step 4: Let It Dry

Once you’re happy with the overall look, give the tree one final misting with water to seal everything in place. Then, let it dry completely—this usually takes 12 to 24 hours, depending on the humidity in your area. During this time, avoid moving or decorating the tree, as the flocking needs to harden to prevent shedding.

After flocking, you’ll likely notice a thin layer of powder on your workspace (and possibly yourself). Carefully fold up your tarp or sheet to contain the mess, and use a vacuum to pick up any stray bits. If you worked outside, a quick sweep should do the trick.

Expert tip: Don’t worry about the flocking affecting your lights. The powder will stick to the wires and bulbs, but once it’s dry, your lights will shine through beautifully.

Common Questions About Tree-Flocking

Q. Can I flock a real tree?

A. Absolutely. The process works just as well on real trees, but keep in mind that flocking may not last as long due to the natural shedding of needles.

Q. Will flocking make my tree fire-resistant?

A. Most flocking powders are flame-retardant when activated with water, but it’s still a good idea to follow standard fire safety precautions with lights and decorations.

Q. How much flocking powder do I need?

A. For a standard 7-8 foot tree, a 5-pound bag of flocking powder should be plenty, even for a heavily flocked look. Smaller trees or garlands will require less.