Wrapping Trees with Christmas Lights
With a few measurements and a bit of planning you can transform your yard into a magical winter wonderland by wrapping outdoor trees in lights!
By Christmas Lights, Etc. | DIY Team
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?
When wrapping trees with Christmas lights, there are some basic measurements that you need to take into consideration. Measure the circumference of the tree trunk, as well as the circumference and count of any branches you wish to wrap with lights. Determine how much spacing you want both between each light bulb on the string, as well as how far apart you plan to wrap the light strings.
A 6" bulb spacing is popular for wrapping trunks and branches, with an average spacing of 2-3" between strings. Divide height by desired string spacing, multiply total by circumference to calculate total string length needed. Example: we have a 4'H trunk that measures 2' in circumference, and we plan to wrap four of the stronger branches, which measure 3'L and 6" in circumference. Use this equation to learn how to wrap a tree with lights:
View our Light Calculation Charts for how many lights are needed on trees.
Quick Tree Wrapping Tips
Most 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. Wrapping trees is much easier with two people, and by keeping the string in a neat ball. The following steps are the easiest way to wrap trees:
How to Wrap Tree Trunks & Branches With Lights
The following DIY image tutorial used a single 70 count LED light string and wrapped a trunk approximately 4'H and 10" diameter, as well as two branches. 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.
Step 1. Create a ball of lights to make wrapping easier, connect male plug to power source at base of tree. You can also buy pre-balled light sets to save on time!
Step 3. Wrap lights up and down the length of main branches
Finished Results: Beautiful Light Wrapped Trees!
Wrapping Lights on Evergreens
Evergreens retain most of their leaves during winter and include Spruce, Pine, and Firs, as well as other varieties. Using our Recommended Number of Lights can help in determining how many light strings are needed, as well as which size bulb. Lights should be checked before installation, especially when lighting larger trees that will be almost impossible to fix once all the light strings are on. 3-Way splitters and power taps may be needed to extend outlets up the length of taller trees.
Tips For Wrapping Evergreens:
Lights for Bushes and Hedges
For the fastest, cleanest method, choose Christmas net lights for bushes and hedges. If you prefer to wrap your bushes and hedges with outdoor tree lights:
How to Put Lights on a Christmas Tree
When wrapping Christmas trees for indoor use, one of the main goals should be to keep wires as concealed as possible. Wrapping tree branches instead of simply draping lights results in a beautiful, even distribution of lighting.
Hanging Decorations for Trees
Have fun with tree lighting schemes by using a different light colors and color combinations to create themed outdoor light displays. Some mini light strings even have multiple bulb colors on one string to easy accomplish the perfect look for a variety of holidays! Popular color combinatons include orange and purple or purple and green lights for Halloween; red, white and blue lights for patriotic displays; and red and green, blue and white or red and white lights for Christmas. In addition to playing with tree light colors, have some fun with hanging a variety of decorations from tree branches too!
Hanging Decoration Ideas
