Struggling with the idea of where you are going to put a full size Christmas tree this year? Why not go for a small Christmas tree instead? A small Christmas tree is just as much fun to decorate at home as a big tree when you you know how to do it. It’s the perfect solution if space is tight and you’re looking to add festive cheer they are perfect in any space, but especially in apartments or small homes.
If you don’t go big for Christmas but still want a little piece of that cosy festive feeling a small Christmas tree is the solution. There’s just something about them that feels so much more personal and less overwhelming.
Small trees come with their own decorating challenges, from toppling over because of poor placement to completely overloading it with decorations and making it look more like a tangled mess than a festive masterpiece. There’s a narrow line between not enough and too much when decorating a small tree.
This guide takes a look at:
- Choosing the right small tree for your home
- How to pick a color scheme for your small tree
- Choosing the best ornaments
- Lights on a small tree
- Tree toppers and skirts for a small Christmas Tree
- Where to put your small Christmas Tree
- DIY decorations and budget-friendly ideas
What size is a small Christmas Tree?
When you think of a small Christmas tree you think of something that is less than 3 – 4ft tall. Many small Christmas trees can be used on tabletops to bring subtle festive cheer if you want an understated or minimalist festive vibe. The plus of small trees is that you can decorate your home with multiple trees even if your home is small. It’s like adding pockets of festive cheer.
Choosing the Right Small Tree for Your Space
When it comes to picking a Christmas tree for a small space size matters. If you’re opting for a small tree because of limited space in a room like your living room, think of getting a table top tree. These can be placed pretty much anywhere , on a side table, a coffee table, or even on a kitchen counter. They’re great if you don’t have a ton of floor space to dedicate to a full-sized tree.
Artificial trees can be a fantastic option if you’re looking for something low-maintenance. These days, you can find mini artificial trees that look so real, you’ll barely notice the difference. Plus, no needles dropping all over your floor and counter tops.
On the other hand, if you love that fresh pine scent, a small live tree can still work. Just be sure you pick one that’s specifically designed for indoor use and doesn’t take up too much room. Even if it’s the right height, they can be deceptively wide and not fit on the counter top.
Here’s a tip: Aim for a slender tree whether choosing an artificial or a natural tree. A pencil tree is ideal if you want to keep things cozy but not cramped.
Color Schemes and Themes for a Small Christmas Trees
One of the best things about decorating a small tree is that you don’t need alot of decorations to create something that is beautiful, stylish, and unique for Christmas. This makes small trees great for anyone doing a Christmas tree on a budget.
Color schemes
Sticking to a simple color scheme really elevates the look of small trees. For example, if you love a clean, minimalist vibe, consider going with whites, silvers, and soft golds. This kind of palette can give your tree a serene, angelic feel.
If you want that traditional Christmas color scheme, go for reds, deep greens, and a touch of glitter. Adding a few metallic accents of gold silver or even rose gold reflect the lights giving your small tree that magical Christmas feel.
Themes
A rustic theme looks lovely on a small Christmas tree. Using small wooden ornaments, plaid ribbons, and tiny pinecones gives the tree a cozy, cabin-in-the-woods feel. You can theme your tree to create a cohesive design, choosing your favorite style, like Disney or the Grinch or design trend.
Popular themes for 2024 include modern, minimalist, and even Scandinavian-style Christmas trees, which focus on neutral colors and natural materials. Whatever theme you choose, make sure it inspires that festive feeling.
Best Ornaments for Small Christmas Trees
When it comes to decorating a small tree, less is more. If you overload your tree, it may end up looking like a storage device for decorations rather than a tree. You want to give each ornament space to shine so pick and choose wisely.
Mini ornaments are an absolute must for small trees. Smaller, delicate ornaments don’t overpower the branches adding just enough charm without crowding the tree. Mini versions of traditional decorations, like mini baubles, tiny stars, or even mini stockings are perfect for the traditional look. Just remember to use lightweight ornaments as anything heavy can tip a small tree, even if you have a small real tree planted in a pot.
Personalized ornaments or DIY decorations can also add a really sweet touch. Whether it’s something you made, something passed down from family, or just something quirky that represents your personality, don’t be afraid to add a bit of ‘you’ to your tree.
Lights on a Small Tree
Micro LED lights are perfect for small trees. They’re tiny, which means you can wrap them around the branches without them taking up too much space or looking bulky. Plus, they give off a soft glow that adds that cosy Christmas feel. You can get them in a range of colors so they are perfect for complimenting any theme or color scheme.
When you add your lights start at the base of the tree and work your way up to string the lights. This helps you control how much light you’re spreading and you’re more likely to get an even all round glow. Add a touch of layering to your lights by weaving them in and out of the branches to create depth.
Even though your tree is small you can still choose between warm and cool lights. I’m all about warm lights. Icy blue or white lights are perfect for a modern or minimalist theme. While rich colors and warm whites create that cosy, more traditional Christmas style.
Tree Toppers and Skirts for a Small Christmas Tree
With small trees, you’ve got to think small with everything, and that includes the topper and the skirt.
Tree toppers
Lightweight and small is the way forward when choosing a Christmas tree topper for a small Christmas tree. You can find small and light weight versions of traditional toppers like angels and stars, just be careful not to overpower the tree, as some can be bigger than they seem, especially if you buy them online.
A bow is light and can be a nice modern alternative to the traditional look, or you can go for a small star. You can also usually adjust bows to create a look that you love and that complements the style of your small tree. A small Santa hat could provide a unique twist for a Christmas tree topper and it is something you could even make yourself if you’re feeling crafty.
Tree skirts
It’s an optional decoration and if you’re opting for a modern or minimalist style tree a skirt may feel too traditional. If you have gone with a real small Christmas tree this may also be in a festive pot so a skirt wouldn’t add any decorative benefit to your design.
If you like a skirt to complete your look, a small tree doesn’t need a huge, elaborate skirt. A simple piece of fabric will work for a small skirt, you can use a cozy plaid scarf or a bit of burlap. The trick is not to style your skirt so that overpowers the tree, it just needs to cover the base. Skirts are practical too, hiding the stand, catching any fallen pine needles if you have a real tree, and giving you a nice little area to set some tiny present.
Where to put your small Christmas Tree
Figuring out where to put your small Christmas tree can feel like a puzzle, especially when space is tight.
- A table or a shelf. By lifting the tree it’s in your eyeline to keep the festive spirit to the front of your mind.
- On a side table or coffee table next to the couch. Adding festive flair and creating a centerpiece in the room.
- On a plant stand or a stool. Perfect if you don’t have a lot of surface space.
- Corners are another great option, especially if you’re really working with minimal space or you don’t want a prominent Christmas reminder.
- Mount small trees on walls with a floating shelf.
- On a windowsill then your tree can be seen from outside too.
When you place your tree remember you want to enjoy your creation and embrace the festive spirit when you see it. Even if that is only for a few moments.
DIY Decorations and Budget-Friendly Ideas
There’s something special about DIY decorations. They’re personal, and they add a lot of character to your tree, especially a small one. Paper decorations are a fun and inexpensive way to decorate your tree without overwhelming it. Think paper snowflakes that you can cut out, or even folding paper animals to decorate your tree with.
Another budget-friendly tip is to use cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, and even candy canes on the tree. Not only does it look festive, but it smells amazing too. If you’re a fan of rustic or homemade vibes, this kind of natural decor works beautifully on small trees.
Make ornaments from salt dough. This is a fun and messy project perfect to do with children, especially if you are decorating a small tree for a bedroom. You just mix flour, salt, and water, roll out the dough, cut it into shapes, and bake. Once they’re cool, you can paint them. They’re perfect for small trees because you can make them any size you want. Plus, they’re lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about them bending the branches.
Ribbons and fabric scraps are another great way to add a bit of flair without breaking the bank. It gives small Christmas trees the cute, homemade look without costing a lot. If you’ve got some extra fabric lying around, you can cut it into strips and use it as a garland, or even make your own tree skirt. Sometimes the best ideas come from what you already have at home.
Creating a Festive Atmosphere Around Your Small Tree
Decorating the space around the tree is just as important as the tree itself. Adding some soft, ambient lighting around the tree enhances the cozy holiday feel. Whether you string up fairy lights along the walls or drape them over shelves to extend the glow beyond just the tree it makes the whole room feel warmer.
Candles are another great way to boost the festive feel. Not only do they add a warm glow, but you can go for holiday-scented candles like cinnamon or pine to bring the whole festive look together.
Another thing I like to do is decorate with holiday accents. Hanging stockings on the wall or mantle and setting up a few mini wreaths or poinsettias adds that traditional Christmas look without taking up a ton of space.
The goal is to make your whole space feel cohesive no matter the size of your tree. Christmas-themed throw pillows and blankets instantly made the room feel cozier and add Christmas feels for those festive moments at home. Little touches can go a long way in making your home feel like a winter wonderland. Living in a small apartment or space does not stop you from creating a Christmassy home.
Conclusion
Decorating a small Christmas tree at home is all about making the most of what you’ve got. It doesn’t matter if your space is small, you can still make your tree the centerpiece of your holiday décor for magic merry moments this Christmas.
