Set up the Christmas tree, string the lights, hang the ornaments, add the tree topper, and voila, you’re done, right? Nope. You forgot all about the bottom of the tree. How are you going to dress it up and disguise the tree stand? You could use a traditional tree skirt, or you could go with something else entirely, like a damask tablecloth or silk sheet. The choice is yours.

Should you prefer the traditional tree skirt, you may already have one on hand you can use. If not, you may want to purchase one or make one. You will find hundreds of tree skirts to choose from. Generally, the more elaborate the design, the higher the price tag will be.

If you don’t find anything you like, perhaps you could make your own tree skirt. Several patterns are available, some requiring little to no sewing. Just make sure you select a tree skirt that suits your decor and can be used from year to year. While that bright red skirt with Santa and his reindeer might be cute, it might not work so well for future color palettes.

If you like to change things up a lot, you might want to consider using the alternative. Take a look around your home and see if there are any linens or fabric scraps that would complement your holiday decor.

That plaid throw on your recliner might work well for a rustic theme, whereas that large scrap of crushed red velvet might work well for a Victorian theme. Planning to run a train around your tree? Why not purchase some sparkled white batting and create a snowy backdrop for the train to run against?

Whatever type of tree skirt you choose, it should be large enough to cover the tree stand and extend the width of the branches. Anything smaller than that will look overwhelmed, while anything larger could pose a tripping hazard.

The point of a Christmas tree skirt is to dress up the bottom of the tree, disguise the tree stand and provide a good backdrop for the presents. Sure, by the time the holiday arrives, the bottom of your tree might be loaded down with presents, but until then, you can make it look good with the right tree skirt.

Tree skirts shown here are available at www.stitchery.com.


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