HOW TO FLOCK A TREE THAT WILL LAST
Have you ever wanted to have a flocked tree in your home for Christmas but just couldn’t swallow the cost?
Well, last year we tackled the project of flocking a tree ourselves.
We learned a few tips and tricks along the way, so we thought we’d give it a go again this year and share how to flock a tree with you today!
It really is much more simple than you may expect! It’s very affordable and doesn’t take much time at all…30 minutes tops (plus drying time).
Supplies Needed
Again flocking a tree really is pretty simple to do, and goes pretty fast. But you will need a few specific supplies to create this light and fluffy snowy texture:
–Artificial or real Christmas tree
–SnoFlock (flocking powder) OR our friend Carrie at Lovelyetc. found that Flock in a box works well too, if you can’t find the SnoFlock. It may be in short supply during the Christmas season.
–Spray bottle of water
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How Much Flock Will I Need?
Last year when we first tried our hands at flocking a tree, we weren’t sure how much flocking powder we’d need. We opted to get a 5lb. box of SnoFlock just to be on the safe side.
Having flocked an 8′ tree last year, we had plenty leftover to flock 2 additional 7′ trees!
(The amount of flocking powder you’ll need will also be dependent on how heavy of a snow look you’re going for. We gave each of the trees a light dusting of snow. If you’re going for a heavier snow look you’ll want to plan on using more product.)
How To Flock A Tree
Again the actual process of flocking a tree is quite simple.
Be mindful that it is pretty messy, so you’ll either want to tackle this DIY project outside or be sure to protect your floor with a drop cloth or tarp.
Flocking can be applied to any artificial or real tree. We opted to string the lights onto the tree before adding the flocking powder, but this is completely optional.
The first step is to set up the tree and fluff the branches.
Then using a spray bottle (or if you’re outside you can use a mister attachment for the hose), liberally wet the tree.
The tree needs to be fairly wet, just not dripping wet.
(If your tree is pre-lit, be sure that the lights are rated for outdoor use and can get wet.)
How To Add Flocking Powder
Using an old measuring cup or scoop, add plenty of flocking powder into a strainer.
Then, gently tap the side of the strainer as you hold it over the tree.
It’s similar to adding confectioners sugar to a treat after baking.
The powder will sift through the strainer and fall onto each branch like falling snow.
Play around with this step until you’re happy with the look of snowfall you’ve achieved.
Set The Flocking Powder
Once you’re happy with the overall look of the tree, take the water-bottle and spray the entire tree. Adding water on top of the flocking powder will activate the adhesive, which will allow the flocking powder to seal and harden.
(This is where we learned from our experience last year!)
Last year, we didn’t apply enough water on top of the flocking, and as we brought it upstairs to decorate, the flocking came off in spots making a huge mess.
This year, we added quite a bit of water. The key is to get it as wet as you can without it dripping! Play around with it until you get the feel for how much you’ll need and you should be good to go!
Each of the 2 trees we flocked this year turned out much better than the tree we flocked last year. The key is to add enough water after the flocking powder is applied that it will harden and stick to the needles.
Isn’t it pretty?! Again we didn’t want to add too heavy of a snow fall look, so we have a bit of the greenery of the tree exposed. This creates the look of a soft fallen snowfall.
Overall, this really is a simple project to do!
It took maybe 30 minutes to wet flock each tree.
Of course, you’ll need to follow drying times according to the flocking material used. Take into account also the temperature where you let the tree dry. If it’s super cold it will take longer. We let ours dry overnight.
Does this whole process seem manageable now? Do you think you’ll give it a try this year? Thanks for being here with us today!
We wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a happy Holiday season.
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Love your trees, they are so beautiful. Will the flocking stay on for a couple of years or do you have to take the tree outside after the decorations are off and it is warmer and hose the flock off. Then just do it again next year.
Thank you Min, so happy you enjoyed my trees. The flocking should last year after year. You may have to add a little more after a couple of years. But in setting up the tree and putting on the ornaments very little flock came off. Please let us know if you try flocking your tree. We’d love to know how it turns out.