Introduction:
Choosing the perfect Christmas tree is a treasured part of holiday traditions. While many still opt for the authentic smell and look of a real tree, artificial Christmas trees have come a long way in terms of realism, convenience, and durability. With the right knowledge, you can select a stunning artificial tree that looks so real, your guests will have to touch it to believe it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose an artificial Christmas tree that looks as natural as possible, from materials to customization options.
Know Your Branch Material
The latter are manufactured to closely mimic the appearance of real needles, with the branches molded from real tree tips. While generally less expensive, PVC trees tend to have flat, ribbon-like needles that are far less realistic than PE. The most realistic tree will be one with a PE-based branch or, better yet, a tree using PE for the outer layer and PVC on inner layers, which are not seen to add fullness.
Know Your Tip Count
The tip count refers to the number of single branch tips on the tree. The higher the tip count, the closer and leafier the tree will be; it will appear full and more natural. Trees with a lower count usually look thin and artificial. Remember: the more the merrier, pretty much always.
Opt for Mixed Branch Styles
Real trees tend to have natural variation in their branch and needle patterns, so having a mixed branch style on an artificial tree can often carry more realism. Look for trees that employ different lengths, textures, and colors of branches to mimic natural variation you would see in a real evergreen.
Opt for a Tree featuring a Subtle Color Gradient
Real trees have a natural shading in their color from one branch to the other. To capture this, many good-quality artificial trees are made in shades of more than one or two greens. A tree with slightly darker inner branches and lighter outer tips will look more realistic than one with a single color tone.
Choose a Tree with Brown Branching
The living trees have brown branches around the trunk area. A few good-quality trees are provided with a brown-colored stem or branches to exactly give the appearance of the real one. This minute detail enhances the realism of the tree to such an extent that the viewer would feel the tree has just been brought inside from the forest.
Choose the Right Shape and Size
The form or shape of the tree is essential to the overall realism. Most trees are naturally conical in shape, so trees that are formed as "full" or "natural" are preferred. Unless you want to capture a particular effect, avoid trees that are too slim. You'll also want to take into consideration the size of the tree in the space in which it is being placed so that the fit is neither too tight nor too loose. A tree that's proportionate to the room will naturally seem more real.
Make sure it is on a Sturdy Well-Designed Base
A cheap tree stand is all that may be needed to break the illusion of a real tree, so ensure your fake tree comes with a sturdy, high-quality base. A stable base won't only prevent tipping but keep the tree very good-looking.
Go Unlit for the Sake of Customization
On the other hand, however, prelit trees are very convenient. If you want a little more personalized and realistic look, you may want to think about going with an unlit tree. That way, you can string your own lights on it, having full control over where the lights are placed, as well as the density, adding to the natural look of the tree.
Fluff and Shape the Branches
How you fluff and arrange the branches on your tree can make the world of difference to how natural your artificial tree looks. Take the time to fluff out each branch, evenly spacing them out and then readjusting to avoid any obvious gaps. This may be extremely time-consuming but one of those 'must-do' elements for an authentically looking, full tree.
Avoid Perfect Symmetry
Real trees are rarely perfect in symmetry, so try not to make the artificial tree too "perfect." Leave some branches a little crooked, and don't stress about having absolute uniformity while decorating. Subtle imperfection does help trick the eye into believing it's real.
Accessorize with Realism in Mind
The way you decorate the tree can also add or detract from its natural state. Choose simple, classic ornaments and garlands that do not overpower the tree. Shy away from overly bright, fake-looking ornaments; instead, use natural elements like pinecones, berries, or slices of dried oranges to add in an element of realism. Further, hiding the base with a tree skirt or placing it on a rustic basket stand really adds to the tree's natural appeal.
Purchase from a Quality Brand
Not all artificial Christmas trees are created equal. If you want one that resembles a real tree, you will want to purchase from a quality brand that has branded itself with realistic, quality trees. Some companies even go so far as taking molds directly from trees to make it look more natural. While these can be much more costly, they tend to last longer and remain looking great throughout the years.
Go with a Frosted or Flocked Tree for an Extra-Natural Look
When it comes to trees, a traditional green is a classic, but one that's frosted or flocked adds such a wintery, natural touch to your holiday style. Flocked trees take on the appearance of branches with fresh snow fallen on them and can be incredibly realistic-looking, especially when subtly done. Just make certain the flocking is light and evenly done so that it doesn't appear fake.
Consider Lighting Options Carefully
When choosing between a pre-lit or unlit tree, consider your lighting preferences and how they impact the realism. Pre-lit trees can be convenient, but unlit trees allow for greater customization and control over light placement. Choose soft white or warm-toned lights for a more authentic look, and avoid overly bright, multi-colored lights if realism is your priority. Additionally, opt for LEDs that mimic the subtle glow of traditional incandescent bulbs, as they will make the tree appear more natural.
Look for High-Quality Construction and Long-Term Durability
An often-overlooked factor when choosing an artificial tree is the build quality and longevity of the product. Pay attention to the sturdiness of the tree’s trunk, the flexibility and strength of its branches, and how easy it is to assemble and disassemble. A well-constructed tree that maintains its shape and structure year after year will save you from needing to replace it frequently, and it will consistently look fresh and realistic.
Ensure a Balanced Density of Branches
In addition to tip count, pay attention to how densely the branches are packed. Too much spacing between branches can result in an empty, sparse look, detracting from the natural appearance. Trees that have branches spaced too tightly together, on the other hand, can look overly manicured. A good artificial tree should strike a balance, with branches that are closely spaced but still allow for natural gaps to be filled with ornaments or garlands.
Storage Tips for Longevity
How you store your tree after the holiday season can greatly affect its appearance and longevity. Invest in a high-quality tree storage bag instead of the cardboard box it came in. This will protect the branches from damage and keep the needles looking fresh year after year. Proper storage will also prevent dust from accumulating on the tree, which can diminish its realism over time.
Conclusion:
With the right guidance, selecting an artificial Christmas tree that looks stunningly realistic is easier than you think. From choosing high-quality materials and varied branch styles to perfecting your tree’s shape and decorating with care, each step helps you achieve the ultimate goal—a tree that perfectly captures the magic and beauty of the season. Follow the tips outlined in this guide, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a beautiful, lifelike tree that will impress your family and guests year after year.
