Narrow Christmas tree ideas: The best tips on how to decorate
A small apartment, a narrow hallway, a compact open-plan living room – and you still dream of a tall, impressive Christmas tree rather than a tiny one on a side table or dresser? Good news: slim or pencil Christmas trees allow you to fulfill this dream without cluttering up the entire room. These trees are a great idea for small spaces and smaller homes, making them a great addition to any holiday decor. The key is to decorate them thoughtfully to emphasize their height, add volume, and create the impression of a richly decorated Christmas tree, despite its small diameter. How to decorate a narrow Christmas tree so that it looks like an elegant, festive decoration? Check it out!!
-
A slim or pencil Christmas tree is ideal for small apartments, but requires different proportions of decorations than a classic tree. Smaller, lighter decorations and well-planned lighting creates the effect of a full, fluffy Christmas tree.
- The key to success is planning: a limited color palette, a chosen style, and the order of decorating, from lights to ribbons to baubles. Inspiration for unique decorations can be found both in stores and among your own ideas, as well as by using a variety of materials to make decorations by hand. This makes the tree look harmonious and prevents the interior from looking cluttered.
- Optical and practical tricks, such as a mirror behind the tree, decorations around the base, or the use of spikes, enhance the “wow” effect. The FairyTrees artificial narrow Christmas tree also ensures comfort, safety around children and pets, and use for many seasons.
Anyone who has ever set up a traditional, full-size Christmas tree in a small living room is familiar with this scenario: the table has to be pushed up against the wall, someone always catches their arm on the branches, and on Christmas Eve, guests squeeze between the chairs and the tree. No wonder that slim and pencil Christmas trees are winning the hearts of residents of studio apartments and compact flats in blocks of flats. Choosing a slim tree is a win-win for those with limited space, especially in smaller rooms or apartments.
A slim Christmas tree saves space, but exposes every decorative mistake. Just a few baubles that are too big or a garland that is too thick can make a slim tree look sad. On the other hand, well-chosen decorations can transform a slim FairyTrees Christmas tree into the star of the interior. Decorating a narrow tree can be a fun and creative process, and the right decorations can add sparkle and make the tree the main tree or focal point of your holiday season. Below you will find a specific step-by-step plan.
Why choose a slim Christmas tree for a small room?
A slim Christmas tree (also known as a pencil tree) takes up little floor space, yet allows you to enjoy the height typical of large trees. This allows you to place your Christmas tree in places that previously seemed “impossible”: in a narrow passageway, between the sofa and the wall, next to the dining room table, or even in the hallway. Unlike a regular tree, regular sized tree, big tree, or full sized Christmas tree, which can take up much more space and may not leave enough room in small interiors, a slim tree is ideal for maximizing your available area. Decorating the Christmas tree is a ritual that involves both children and adults every year.
A slender Christmas tree is also a practical choice for families with children or pets - it is easy to position the tree so that it does not block the daily routes of little “runners” or get in the way of a dog’s tail. When putting the tree in place, make sure to choose a spot where there is enough room for daily activities. Choosing the right decorations can be a dilemma, especially when space is limited.
Which FairyTrees slim Christmas tree to choose?
FairyTrees artificial narrow Christmas trees have stable stands and dense but thoughtfully arranged branches, so the decorations stay in place and the tree remains upright. However, Christmas trees differ in character. When choosing, it is worth paying attention to several elements:
-
Slim or slender Christmas tree? The FairyTrees FT05 narrow fir tree looks very slender and tall, so it fits well in narrow hallways, corners by a bookcase, or spaces where only a small base diameter is important. On the other hand, the FairyTrees FT32 fir tree has a slightly fuller crown, but the branches can be curled upwards, making it suitable for small living rooms and balcony windows.
-
Color and type of needles. The natural shades of the FT32 fir tree create a classic atmosphere. The lighter needles of the FairyTrees FT05 fir tree fit in with a Scandinavian, bright style. A mixture of branches of various shapes enhances the natural look and makes decorating easier.
-
Christmas tree height. Tall models, between 180 centimeters and 220 centimeters, with a small base diameter, work well in small apartments. This gives you the “wow effect” without sacrificing space for a Christmas table.
You can also read about how to choose an artificial Christmas tree for a small apartment on our blog. Remember that it is worth ordering your Christmas tree a little earlier. Delivery before the beginning of December allows you to calmly unfold, shape the branches, and test your decorating ideas without rushing. Each FairyTrees model is carefully created to suit different interior styles and space requirements.
Plan decorations to match your interior
Before the first bauble goes on a branch, plan the whole concept. Choose a color palette limited to two or three colors complemented by light metallic accents, such as gold, silver, or copper. Once you have decided on your colors and style, it becomes much easier to select decorations that will create a cohesive and elegant look. This will create visual calm, which is very important in a small space. Baubles, ribbons, and garlands in repeating colors create a harmonious whole, rather than a random collection of decorations.
Also, match the style of the decorations to the character of the interior. Here are a few ideas:
-
scandinavian style - white, wood, grays, paper decorations, linen bows, straw decorations
-
classic style - red baubles, gold, stars, pine cones, and bows
-
minimalist style - one dominant color, simple baubles, small lights
-
glamour style - silver and gold baubles, pearl chains, glittery Christmas tree decorations
For those who are undecided, such a plan is invaluable support. Instead of chaotically “buying things because they’re pretty,” you have a clear list of what you really need to decorate a narrow Christmas tree. Adding a bit of metallic or glittery accent can further enhance the overall look and help fill any gaps in your christmas decor.
How to decorate a slim Christmas tree?
A narrow Christmas tree requires a slightly different approach than a classic, wide tree. The key is a coherent plan: a well-thought-out color palette, appropriately selected proportions of decorations, and the arrangement of lights that add volume and hide gaps. The first thing to do is to decide on your color palette and decorating style. When you treat a slender tree as a decoration designed for a small space, rather than a smaller version of a large Christmas tree, you achieve a truly elegant effect.
Decorating a Christmas tree is a special moment that allows you to dress it up in both a traditional and modern style, emphasizing the atmosphere of Christmas. Below are some ideas on how to decorate your Christmas tree in a modern way and in line with Christmas trends.
Lights on a slim Christmas tree: how many and how to arrange them
The lighting of a slim Christmas tree plays a dual role. On the one hand, it creates atmosphere, and on the other, it effectively masks gaps and emphasizes the volume of the tree.
A practical converter makes it easy to choose the length of the lights. Approximately 100 small lights for every 30 centimeters of tree height provides a rich effect. For a narrow tree about 180 centimeters tall, it is worth preparing about 600 small lights.
Arrange the lights in a spiral pattern, but lead them inward. Start at the trunk, twisting the string around the branches closer to the center, and then bring some of the lights closer to the outer ends. The tree will begin to “glow from the inside,” which will make it appear denser.
Match the color of the light to the style:
-
warm white LEDs create a cozy, family atmosphere
-
cool white emphasizes modern interiors and snow-covered models
-
delicately colored lights create a joyful, slightly retro mood
It is worth choosing thin wires and small points of light. During the day, they remain almost invisible, and in the evening, they create a real spectacle on slender branches.
Choose the right Christmas tree decorations
A slender Christmas tree needs smaller and lighter decorations. Baubles measuring approx. 5-7 centimeters (about 2–3 inches) work best. They do not weigh down the delicate branches, while still providing a decorative effect. But larger decorations do not have to end up at the bottom of the box! Just move them closer to the trunk, where they will create depth. Mixing ornaments in different sizes, including larger ornaments placed near the trunk, adds visual interest and makes the tree look fuller.
In recent years, glass baubles and openwork angels have become very popular, looking beautiful on slender branches.
A narrow Christmas tree looks best when it has a variety of textures. Combine classic shiny, matte, and glittery baubles, add transparent elements, wood, felt, frosted glass, or velvet bows. Incorporate sparkling snowflakes as accents to enhance the festive look and add a wintry touch. You can use a variety of materials to make some decorations, such as lace, fabric, or cardboard, and if they are made of salt dough or gingerbread, you can additionally decorate them with icing. The varied surfaces will create a “multidimensional” Christmas tree effect, and the slender line will remain clear. Simply put, your Christmas tree won’t end up looking like a heavy column of decorations.
Arrange baubles and pendants without creating chaos
Randomly hung decorations can make the tree look eclectic but in a messy way. This is particularly evident in slender models. Even the most beautiful decorations will not save a Christmas tree if they are hung in random order.
Therefore, hang baubles evenly from top to bottom on the branches – this will avoid the effect of a chaotically decorated Christmas tree. Every few minutes, take a few steps back to check that the tree has no empty spaces or overloaded sections. If you notice a gap, use a bit of filler, such as small picks or extra baubles, to fill it and create a cohesive look. Place large decorations towards the bottom and smaller ones towards the top to keep the silhouette balanced.
Pay attention to depth. Hang some of the baubles deeper, closer to the trunk. Larger, shiny baubles look best there. The twinkling lights reflect off them, creating the illusion of a very dense Christmas tree. Place small pendants at the ends of the branches, where they will complete the composition.
Ribbons, garlands, and chains on a slender tree
Heavy, wide garlands tend to overwhelm a narrow tree. These types of decorations visually “flatten” the silhouette and dominate the delicate branches.
Subtle accents give a better effect:
-
narrow ribbons made of satin, linen, tulle, or blue ribbon for a modern twist
-
delicate bead chains
-
garlands made of small elements, e.g., tiny stars
The trick with vertical ribbons works great. Instead of wrapping them around the tree, attach their ends to the top and let them flow freely down. Such strips beautifully emphasize the height of the tree, do not widen it, and give it a touch of luxury. This technique also helps achieve an elegant look, especially when using coordinated colors like blue, gold, or white.
If you like classic chains, hang one or two in the form of delicate, rather vertical strands. Avoid densely “wrapping” the tree with successive layers of chains. In a narrow model, every addition immediately catches the eye, so moderation brings the best effect.
Tips and tricks for narrow Christmas trees
A narrow Christmas tree looks best when every element contributes to the final look: from a stable position, through lighting, to small details around the base. With a few simple tricks, a slender Christmas tree will easily fit into even a tiny studio apartment, while looking like a refined decoration from a catalog. Placing a narrow Christmas tree in the hallway or entryway is a great addition to your Christmas decor and a perfect solution for small apartments.
Add volume to a slim Christmas tree
Slim artificial Christmas trees often have shorter branches than classic models. A few simple habits will give the tree a unique fullness:
-
Carefully spread out the branches. Before you start decorating, take a moment to fluff up the tree, by carefully shaping each branch. Spread out the needles to create a “base” for the decorations and immediately increase the volume of the Christmas tree. If you notice any sparse areas, use a bit of extra filler, such as larger ornaments or decorative picks, to fill those gaps and enhance the tree's fullness.
-
Decorate in layers from the inside out. First, hang the lights, including those hidden deep inside. Then add ribbons or delicate garlands. Finally, add baubles and small pendants. This order ensures that nothing will block the light and the decorations will look harmonious.
-
Use decorative picks and twigs. They are a small but very effective decorating tool! Holly picks, twigs with small balls, and clip-on poinsettias can be inserted between the branches where the tree seems too sparse. A few such elements at the bottom of the tree slightly widen its outline, which further balances the tall, slender top.
Optical tricks to enlarge the space
In small apartments, every centimeter counts. Therefore, with a narrow tree, it is worth using effects that enlarge the space without adding more furniture or decorations.
-
Mirror behind the Christmas tree. If the tree is standing against a wall, place a mirror behind it or hang it right next to it. The lights’ reflection will double the glow, and the Christmas tree will look twice as dense. This also adds depth and brightness to the corner. This simple trick can help create a winter wonderland effect in your home by amplifying the sparkle and festive atmosphere.
-
Arrangement around the base. A slender Christmas tree does not have to stand alone! All you need is one larger lantern, a few decorative packages, a reindeer figurine, or a Christmas wreath on the wall next to it. The decoration then gently “spills” beyond the tree itself, creating a beautiful scene. Incorporating coordinated Christmas decor around the base enhances the overall festive look and ties the space together.
-
A star to match the slender silhouette. A star that is too heavy and too large will overwhelm a narrow tree and disrupt its proportions. A light top decoration will work better: a small star, an openwork angel, or a decorative bow. A height of about 1/10 of the tree’s height will provide the most elegant effect.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about decorating narrow Christmas trees
How to decorate a slender Christmas tree in a simple way?
The easiest way is to stick to one pattern. First, choose two or three colors and prepare a set of decorations in this palette. Start by choosing a color palette, as this sets the tone for your tree. Decorating can be a fun and creative activity for the whole family, making the process enjoyable and engaging. Then apply the lights from the center outwards, add a few vertical ribbons, and finally hang smaller, light baubles at equal intervals. You can repeat this pattern every year, changing only the colors or a few accents, so decorating doesn’t take much time and the effect always looks consistent.
What models of slim Christmas trees are available from FairyTrees?
FairyTrees offers slim Christmas trees of various types. You can choose slim models (FT05 spruce made of a mix of PE or FT07 spruce made of 100% PE), which have a slightly fuller silhouette, and tapered, slender Christmas trees, such as the FT32 Bavarian spruce, ideal for very tight spaces. Variants in different heights are available.
How many lights do I need to decorate a slim Christmas tree?
A good rule of thumb is about 100 small lights for every 30 centimeters of tree height. For a slender tree about 180 centimeters tall, approximately 600 micro lights will work. If you like a very strong lighting effect, you can add a second string, but it is best to keep the lights small so as not to overwhelm the slender silhouette.
Is a slim Christmas tree suitable for children and pets?
Yes, a slim Christmas tree is particularly well suited to homes with children and pets, including cats. It takes up little space, so it is easy to place it to the side of the main passageway, for example against a wall or in a corner. Slim Christmas trees are especially ideal for small homes and rooms, as they fit comfortably in limited or narrow spaces without crowding the area. FairyTrees artificial Christmas trees have stable stands, and when using lightweight decorations made of plastic, felt, or wood, the risk of breakage and injury is significantly reduced. The lower parts can be decorated with more resistant pendants, and the more delicate baubles can be moved higher up.
What height of narrow Christmas tree should you choose for a small living room?
In most compact living rooms, slim Christmas trees between 180 and 220 centimeters tall work well. The most important factor is the diameter of the base, which remains small in slim and slender models, so that the tree does not overlap with the furniture. A slim Christmas tree can still serve as the main tree in your living room, acting as the central focal point for your festive decorations. It is a good idea to leave a few centimeters of space between the top of the Christmas tree and the ceiling, which makes it easier to put decorations on the top.
How to store a narrow Christmas tree after the holidays?
After the holidays, it is a good idea to remove the decorations, carefully fold the branches inward, and place the tree in a box or a special storage bag. A slender model takes up less space than a classic tree, so it often fits in a closet, storage room, or attic. Many people fall in love with decorating their slim tree from the first year, making it a cherished part of their holiday life. The more carefully you fold the branches, the easier it will be to shape them next season, and the tree will retain its shape and aesthetic appearance for many years.
How to visually “enlarge” a narrow Christmas tree in a small apartment?
Two techniques give the best effect. First, place the tree near a mirror or shiny surface that will reflect the light from the lights and add depth to the arrangement. Second, arrange a simple scene around the tree, for example, one larger lantern, a wreath on the wall, and a few gifts by the stand. This will make the entire decoration appear larger, even though the tree itself takes up very little space.