Decorating in the right order makes a big difference. Work from the inside out and from large items to small details: lights first, then garland, ornaments, fillers and finally the topper.

Step 1: Shape the tree

If the tree is artificial, fluff every branch first. Gaps are much harder to fix once ornaments are on. Our guide on how to fluff an artificial tree walks through it.

Step 2: Pick a color scheme

Choose two or three main colors plus one metallic. Classic combinations include red and gold, silver and blue, white and natural wood, or a single color in different finishes. A clear scheme makes even simple ornaments look planned.

Step 3: Add the lights

Lights always go first. Weave them from the trunk out to the branch tips so the tree glows from inside. Plan on about 100 lights per foot of height for a classic look; see how many lights you need.

Step 4: Add garland or ribbon

Drape beaded garland in loose swags, or tuck wired ribbon into the branches in a spiral or in vertical cascades from top to bottom. Keep it loose: tight garland flattens the tree’s shape.

Step 5: Hang ornaments from large to small

  1. Large ornaments: place them first, deeper inside the branches and spread evenly, to fill space and add depth.
  2. Medium ornaments: hang them in the middle layer, filling the gaps between large ones.
  3. Small and special ornaments: hang them near the tips and at eye level, where they can be seen.

Step back after each round. Look for clusters of the same color and move pieces around until the tree looks balanced.

As a rough guide, a 7 ft tree holds about 60 to 100 ornaments, depending on their size and how full you like it. Mix finishes, such as shiny, matte and glitter, for depth.

Step 6: Keep fragile ornaments safe

Hang glass and heirloom ornaments higher, on sturdy inner branches. Use shatterproof ornaments on the lower third if you have pets or small children.

Step 7: Add fillers

Picks, sprays, faux berries and pine cones tucked into gaps make a tree look fuller and more professional. Keep them in your color scheme.

Step 8: Add the topper and skirt

Finish with the topper; check its weight and base fit for your tree. Then add a tree skirt or collar to hide the stand. See our tree toppers and stands and skirts.

Browse more ideas in our ornaments category.