How to Wrap a Tree with Christmas Lights

By Kelli Harvey | Updated Feb 21, 2024

What You'll Find in This Guide

From outdoor trees and bushes to indoor Christmas trees too, we're covering all of the most common tree light wrapping topics in this guide below! Browse through each topic or click on a link from the list below to go straight to the section you're looking for.

How Many Lights for Wrapping Trees?

Multicolor LED Light Wrapped Tree for Christmas
Christmas Light Wrapped Trees

Quick Tree Wrapping Tips

Most outdoor trees are wrapped the length of the trunk and approximately 3-4' high in the extending branches. Not every branch needs to be wrapped, and branches should be selected to allow for an even, pleasing distribution of light. You can create a beautiful scene with just a few string lights wrapped with 6-8" spacing around each tree, however if you want an intense, full coverage look, keep each wrap closer together as you move up the tree. Depending on how high you plan to wrap the tree, it may be helpful to have a ladder or bucket lift, and a second person to help out.

Quick Steps For Wrapping Trees with Lights

  • Plug all of the light strings in to make sure they are working and then wind each string into a ball shape. This step is important. It takes just a few seconds but it will save you tons of time by not having to deal with loose or tangled strings during your install.

  • Now begin passing the ball of lights around the trunk of the tree. Keep the lights pulled tight as you go to create tension and prevent the string from slipping down the tree trunk.

  • When you reach the end of the first string, plug the next string in and continue wrapping up the trunk and into the branches as high as you'd like to go.

  • Secure the end of your final string by tucking it under a nearby light wrap or use a zip tie to fasten it to the branch.

Tip for wrapping multiple tree branches with lights: To create a clean look when wrapping multiple branches, leave extra space as you wrap the lights up the length of the branch, then wrap back down the branch filling in the gaps. When you reach the base of a branch, run the light string over to the next branch and repeat this process.

How to Wrap a Tree with Lights

How to Wrap a Tree with Lights

Step 3. When you reach the end of the first string, plug the next string in and continue wrapping up the trunk and into the branches as high as you'd like to go.

How to Wrap a Tree with Lights
How to Wrap a Tree with Lights

Finished Results: Beautiful Light Wrapped Trees!

Red, White & Blue Light Wrapped Trees - Patriotic Decor
Red, White & Blue Patriotic Light Trees
Tree Wrapped with White Christmas Lights
Classic White Outdoor Tree Lights
Halloween Light Wrapped Trees
Halloween Light Wrapped Trees

Trunk Wrap Lights for Wrapping Trees

Tree Wrapped with String Lights

Trees Wrapped with String Lights

Tree Wrapped with Trunk Lights

Trunk Wrap Tree Lights

Wrapping Lights on Evergreens

Snowy Tree Wrapped with Lights
Evergreen Trees Wrapped with Lights

Lights for Bushes and Hedges

How to Put Lights on a Christmas Tree

Hanging Decorations for Trees

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