I know: the normal way to put lights on a tree is the "around-and-around" approach, right? Well...last year (for some reason) I decided to try something a bit different. Rather than go around the tree, I placed the lights on each individual branch. Here's what I do: I start at the trunk of the tree and work the lights to the tip of the branch, then (still on the same branch) take the lights back to the trunk. Then it's over to the the next branch, up to the tip, back to the trunk. As you can imagine, it takes a lot more lights for this application. More than you think.
I really like the way it ends up though. The tree is absolutely beautiful -- full of light. It may seem a bit bright in the photos, but by the time the ornaments are put on, it's just right.
So...run out to Target or WalMart today and stock up on lights. C'mon, try it!
Ready for lights!
After the first few strands of lights.
Almost done!
Voila! The tree of lights.(Notice the reflection in the French doors?)
5 comments:
The tree looks great, Mike. I hope you let the wife and kids near it to help, too.
I've been doing my lights branch by branch for a few years now. A "Professional Tree Designer" friend taught me the trick. (I don't know what else he does the other 11 months of the year, though!) Luckily, my tree is a tiny 4 footer.
Oh yes...the kids helped. And they hung 90% of the ornaments last nite. I need to upload a picture of the 'finished product'.
That's how I put the lights on my tree. It's 7 feet, and I get at least 800 lights on it. I'll probably put it up next weekend. Thanks for the pics - it looks terrific!
I string my lights the same way - up and down each branch - only I start at the bottom and work my way up! And yes, it takes lots of lights, but, boy, it looks good!
Thanks too for your kind words.
I LOVE your tree! Our tree is never the same - we go out Thanksgiving morning on a 2 hour drive to the mountains, pick out the 'perfect' tree (Chevy Chase style) and bring it home! It's takes me all week to get it all done ... right now? Lights are the ONLY thing on the tree!!!
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