How to Flock a Christmas Tree: An Expert Guide to Decorating With Artificial Snow

There’s something magical about snow falling gently from the sky, even if it’s something many of us don’t see at Christmas time in Australia. Flocking your Christmas tree is a simple way to bring that wintry look indoors, no matter where you live. In this guide, we share four flocking methods that will help you create a soft, snow-inspired finish for your tree.

General Precautions and Tips

How do you flock a Christmas tree at home? Follow these tips before you begin.

Warranty Disclaimer

Any damage that results from flocking or altering your Balsam Hill tree in any way will void your warranty. For more information, refer to our warranty policy.

Safety First

Keep flocking materials out of reach of children and pets. While many products are non-toxic, some sprays may contain chemicals that need careful handling. If your tree has lights, check for broken bulbs or frayed wires to avoid electrical hazards.

Wear Protective Gear

Wear a mask, gloves and safety goggles to prevent inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with flocking materials.

Work In a Well-Ventilated Area

Flocking can get messy, so work outdoors if you can, or in a garage with the doors open. Lay down a tarp, drop cloth or painter’s plastic to catch any excess.

Do a Patch Test

Apply a small amount of flock to an inconspicuous area first to make sure you’re happy with the look.

Fluff Your Tree Before Flocking

Shape the branches before adding any flocking. Refer to our guide to shaping your tree for step-by-step instructions.

How To Flock a Christmas Tree With Pre-Made Flocking

Decorating with store-bought Christmas tree flocking is one of the easiest ways to give your tree a soft, snow-inspired finish. We recommend using bagged flock rather than spray can flock for a more natural look. Here is how to flock your tree using pre-made flocking.

Steps

1. Dampen the entire Christmas tree - Place your tree in the centre of your painter’s plastic or drop cloth, then use a spray bottle to lightly mist the branch tips. This helps the flocking stick to the needles.
2. Flock your Christmas tree - Starting at the top, sprinkle small handfuls of flocking onto the branch tips. Let it fall naturally onto the lower branches, then add more until you achieve the look you want. Avoid applying too much flock so the branches don’t droop.
3. Dampen the entire tree again - Mist the tree once more to help the flocking adhere. Hold the spray bottle about 30 to 36 centimetres away to avoid disturbing your design.
4. Let the flocking dry - Allow the flocking to dry for 24 to 48 hours without disturbing it. Once completely dry, bring it indoors and add your ornaments. You can also apply a second coat if you want a heavier snow effect.

How To Flock Your Christmas Tree With Soap Shavings

This is a popular DIY option for Christmas tree flocking because it is cost-efficient, easy to find and simple to customise. You can even adjust the look by adding glitter or food colouring. Here is how to flock a Christmas tree using soap shavings.

Materials

• 2 cups white soap shavings
• 2/3 cup cornstarch slurry or white glue
• 4 tablespoons warm water
• Food colouring or glitter (optional)

Steps

1. Create the mixture - Combine the soap shavings and cornstarch slurry or white glue in a mixer on medium speed. Add the warm water and any food colouring or glitter. Beat until the mixture forms stiff peaks with a consistency similar to nougat.
2. Flock your tree - Use a paintbrush to scoop a small amount of the mixture and apply it only to the needle tips. Start at the top of the tree and work your way down. For a more natural look, let the mixture gather in small clusters or drip slightly from the higher branches.
3. Let your flocking dry - Allow the tree to dry for 8 to 24 hours, depending on the size of the tree and how much flocking you have applied.

How To Flock a Christmas Tree With Shaving Cream

Shaving cream is another simple option for creating Christmas tree flocking. Its naturally thick, foamy texture already mimics soft snow, which helps reduce prep time. Follow the steps below to flock your Christmas tree using shaving cream.

Materials

• 4 to 6 cans of shaving cream
• 2/3 cup white glue
• Food colouring or glitter (optional)

Steps

1. Create the mixture - Blend the shaving cream with the white glue in a mixer on medium speed. Mix until stiff peaks form. Add food colouring or glitter if you want to customise the look.
2. Flock your tree - Apply the mixture to the needle tips, starting at the top and working your way down. For a more natural effect, let the foam sit in small clusters or gently drip onto the lower branches.
3. Let your flocking dry - Allow the tree to dry for 8 to 24 hours, depending on the tree’s size and how much flocking you have used.

How To Flock a Christmas Tree With Desiccated Coconut

A coconut-based flock is a gentle, hypoallergenic option, but keep in mind that it is perishable compared to soap or cream-based mixtures. Using a strong binding agent helps the flakes hold together and last longer. Here is how to flock your Christmas tree with desiccated coconut.

Materials

• 450 grams desiccated coconut
• 2 cups cornstarch slurry
• Food colouring or glitter (optional)

Steps

1. Create the mixture - Place the desiccated coconut in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of the cornstarch slurry to the flakes, mixing with your hands to coat them evenly and break up any clumps. Add food colouring or glitter if you want to customise the look.
2. Fluff the mixture - Introduce air into the mixture by lightly fluffing it with your hands until it feels loose rather than pasty.
3. Flock your tree - Sprinkle the coconut mixture from the top of the tree, letting it fall naturally onto the lower branches. Continue until you reach the finish you prefer.
4. Let your flocking dry - Allow the tree to dry for 8 to 24 hours, depending on the tree’s size and how much flocking you have applied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here we answer common questions about flocking a Christmas tree.

What Is the Best Way To Flock a Christmas Tree?

The most effective way to flock a Christmas tree is by using a specialised flocking powder made for this purpose. Mist the tree with water, then sift the powder onto the branches so it can bind and form a durable, snow-inspired coating. This method gives the most natural and long-lasting finish.

Can You Use Spray Snow To Flock a Christmas Tree?

Spray snow can add a light snowy effect, but it is not the same as true flocking. The texture is different; it is usually less durable, and it may flake off more easily. For a lasting, professional finish, flocking powder is the better option.

How Do You Keep Flocking from Falling Off?

To prevent flocking from shedding, make sure you apply it correctly. Mist the branches with water before and after adding the flocking powder, as moisture activates the adhesive within the powder. Once fully dry, the flocking forms a firm coating that stays in place.

How Do You Make Homemade Flocking?

Homemade flocking is often made using simple ingredients such as soap shavings or shaving cream mixed with cornstarch and glue. While this can recreate a snowy appearance, it will not be as durable or long-lasting as commercial flocking products.