How to put lights on a christmas tree

And now - how to put lights on the christmas tree - this idea came from our youngest daughter - who is an expert tree decorator. She has as many as three themed trees some years. This year she has a Cello tree - I can't wait to see it - her trees always look like a professional did them, she has such wonderful details on each tree.

This is for putting lights on an artificial tree - obviously it wouldn't work on a real tree.

When you get the bottom layer of branches on - spread the lights all over the branches - clear in to the center stem of the tree - this way you have lights all through the tree and not just on the ends of the branches - and you don't get scratches on your hands and arms.

Add another layer of branches - and more lights - spread out all over the branches - it is easier to do because you are working from the top of the portion of the tree that is put together.

More rows of branches - more lights. We use a zillion small lights for a wondrous, sparkly effect.

And almost to the top - this one was a little squiggly but I like the looks of the lights in it . . .

And a REALLY squiggly picture - but I kind of like it - goes well with my christMESS.

So some of you probably already do the lights this way - if not, maybe give it a try next time, it sure does make light stringing faster if you like lots and lots of lights.

Or

You can just do like I did for our second tree, the teddy bear tree - just go buy yourself a prelit tree and be done with fussing with the lights. Don does the lights on the big tree - I bought a prelit tree this year.

Here are some of our trees over the years - it is fun to see how different each year looks - even with the same artificial tree and the same ornaments.

We also have bubble lights, and lights shaped like bells and snowballs.

The teddy bear tree with all white lights, and teddy bear lights . . .

Strings of popcorn and cranberries . . .

I like the shiny glittery tree at night . . .in a house built in 1920 . . .

Reflected in the windows - we lived in a huge farmhouse this year . . .

And now some photos of our youngest daughter's trees . . .

A Baby Harp Seal Tree . . .

The same Baby Harp Seal tree - different house . . .

With a flash - so you can see all the Baby Harp Seals on the tree . . .

Her Sea Turtle tree - she can find the most interesting ornaments. . .

Sea Turtle tree - all lit up . . .

May your tree be lovely and just what you want it to be!!!