Christmas is the time of year when people get out their decorations and make their homes festive for the holiday. One of the most iconic decorations of the season is the Christmas tree. Decorated Christmas trees have been a tradition for centuries and are a symbol of the holiday season. In this article, we’ll explore the history of decorated Christmas trees and some of the most popular decorations used today.
History of Decorated Christmas Trees
The tradition of decorating Christmas trees is believed to have originated in 16th century Germany. German families would bring a spruce tree into their homes and decorate it with apples, nuts, and paper roses. Over time, the decorations became more elaborate and today there are many different types of decorations used to make a Christmas tree look festive and inviting.
Types of Decorations
There are many different types of decorations used on Christmas trees today. Some of the most popular include lights, garlands, tinsel, ornaments, and ribbons. Lights are often used to give the tree a twinkling effect and can be either incandescent or LED. Garlands are made of plastic, metal, or fabric and are draped around the tree to give it a festive look. Tinsel is a type of garland made of thin strips of metal and is often used to give the tree a shimmering effect. Ornaments come in many shapes and sizes and are used to add color and texture to the tree. Ribbons are also used to give the tree a festive look and can be used to tie ornaments to the branches.
Popular Color Schemes
When decorating a Christmas tree, many people choose to stick to a specific color scheme. Some of the most popular color schemes include traditional red and green, white and silver, blue and silver, and pink and gold. Choosing a color scheme can help give the tree a unified look and make it stand out in a room.
Unique Decoration Ideas
For those who want to get creative with their Christmas tree decorations, there are plenty of unique ideas to explore. Some people choose to hang photographs or make homemade ornaments to give the tree a personalized touch. Others choose to use popcorn or cranberries as garlands or use edible decorations such as candy canes or gingerbread cookies.
Safety Tips
When it comes to decorating a Christmas tree, safety should always be a priority. Be sure to use only UL-listed lights and decorations, as these are designed to be safe for use around a tree. Avoid using decorations that are made of flammable materials, such as paper or fabric. In addition, keep placing the lights and decorations away from sources of heat such as fireplaces and radiators.
Tree Topping Ideas
The final touch to any Christmas tree is the tree topper. These come in a variety of styles, from traditional stars to more modern designs. Some people choose to make their own tree toppers using materials such as ribbon, fabric, and paper. Other popular tree toppers include angels, snowflakes, bells, and even Santa Claus.
Preserving the Tree
Once the tree is decorated, it’s important to take steps to preserve it for the season. Be sure to water the tree regularly and keep it away from direct sources of heat. Also, avoid using too many lights and decorations, as this can cause the tree to dry out and become brittle. Finally, cover the tree with a sheet or a plastic bag when it is not in use to protect it from dust and dirt.
Conclusion
Decorating a Christmas tree is a tradition that has been practiced for centuries. There are many different types of decorations used to make a tree look festive and inviting, and many people choose to stick to a color scheme to give the tree a unified look. There are also many unique decoration ideas to explore, and safety should always be a priority when decorating a tree. Finally, a tree topper is the perfect finishing touch and can be either traditional or modern.
