Preserving the Perfect Flocked Look Year After Year
Flocked artificial Christmas trees have become a popular choice for those seeking a stunning, snow-dusted winter wonderland look in their homes. While the flocked finish creates a beautiful, festive aesthetic, maintaining and storing these trees can pose unique challenges. As a seasoned expert in holiday decor, I’m here to share clever hacks and practical tips to help you preserve the pristine appearance of your flocked artificial tree, ensuring it remains picture-perfect for many Christmases to come.
Understanding Flocking and Its Unique Maintenance Needs
Flocking is the process of applying a white, powdery or liquid mixture to a Christmas tree, either live or artificial, to create the illusion of freshly fallen snow. This technique dates back to the 1800s and became increasingly popular with the invention of flocking sprays in the 1950s. While the end result is a stunning, snow-kissed look, flocked trees require special care and attention to prevent excessive shedding and discoloration.
Unlike unflocked artificial trees, where the branches and needles are encased in a protective coating, flocked trees have a more delicate, loose surface that can easily become dislodged when jostled or handled. This shedding can lead to a messy cleanup process and the gradual loss of the tree’s pristine appearance over time.
Preventing Shedding During Setup and Decoration
When setting up your flocked artificial Christmas tree, it’s essential to take a few precautionary steps to minimize shedding and keep the flocking in place. Begin by dressing in old clothes that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, and avoid wearing any fleece or fuzzy materials, as the flocking tends to cling to these fabrics.
Preparing the Setup Space:
– Shut off any windows, fans, or HVAC systems that could circulate air and cause the flocking to fly around the room.
– Close off any vents or registers near the area where you’ll be unboxing and assembling the tree.
– Clear the space where the tree will be placed and lay down a protective covering, such as an old sheet, tarp, or plastic sheeting, to catch any falling flocking.
Unboxing and Assembling the Tree:
– Unbox the tree as close to the stand as possible, keeping any inner plastic or bubble wrap coverings on during the process.
– Gently fluff the branches, starting from the top and working your way down, to avoid excessive shedding.
– Vacuum up any flocking that falls to the ground outside the protective covering as you go.
– Once the tree is fully assembled, carefully remove the protective covering, ensuring any remaining flocking is contained and disposed of properly.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the amount of shedding that occurs during the initial setup, keeping your living room clean and the flocking intact.
Storing Flocked Artificial Trees for Next Season
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the pristine appearance of your flocked artificial Christmas tree. Unlike unflocked trees, which can be simply disassembled and stored, flocked trees require a more delicate approach to prevent damage and discoloration.
Preparing the Tree for Storage:
– Gently shake the tree to remove any dust or loose flocking particles that have accumulated during the holiday season.
– Do not attempt to move or compress the branches, as this can cause the flocking to fall off.
– Carefully slip the upright tree cover, fabric, or plastic cover over the tree, minimizing any jostling or movement.
– If you don’t have an upright cover, disassemble the tree into a few parts and store them in a secure case or container.
Choosing the Right Storage Location:
– Store the flocked artificial tree in a consistently dry, cool space, such as a finished basement or climate-controlled storage unit.
– Avoid areas with high humidity or fluctuating temperatures, as these conditions can cause the flocking to turn yellow or become discolored over time.
By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your flocked artificial Christmas tree maintains its pristine, snow-kissed appearance year after year, making it a worthwhile investment for your holiday decor.
Decorating with Flocked Artificial Trees
Flocked artificial Christmas trees offer a beautiful, winter-inspired look that can be further enhanced through thoughtful decoration. When adorning your flocked tree, consider using a textured, white tree skirt to help camouflage any shedding that may occur.
For lighting, opt for LED or low-heat bulbs to prevent any potential fire hazards. If possible, leave the tree’s existing lights in place during storage to avoid the risk of damaging the flocking when reconnecting them.
To complement the snowy aesthetic, choose ornaments and other decorations that echo the winter wonderland theme. Glass ornaments, metallic accents, and natural elements like pinecones or dried citrus slices can all work beautifully with a flocked tree.
Embracing the Flocked Aesthetic
Flocked artificial Christmas trees are a stunning addition to any holiday decor, but they do require a bit of extra care and attention. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can preserve the pristine, snow-kissed appearance of your flocked tree, ensuring it remains the centerpiece of your holiday celebrations for years to come.
Remember, with the right storage and maintenance methods, your flocked artificial tree can continue to bring the enchantment of a winter wonderland into your home, year after year. Embrace the beauty of flocked trees and enjoy the cozy, festive ambiance they create throughout the holiday season.
Happy decorating!
