There’s something magical about a snow-covered Christmas tree. If you love the frosted look but don’t want to spend a fortune on a pre-flocked tree, why not do it yourself? With just a few materials and a little creativity, you can transform your tree into a winter wonderland. Today, we are going to use my DIY tree flocking recipe to make fake snow for cheap -less than $8 for materials. Here’s how!
f you are new to the blog, welcome! I blog and make videos about cleaning, decluttering, and organizing. You can find my free printables to help you get organized in the drop down menu under the Printables category at the top of this page. You can find that free printable Christmas menu and shopping list here. This is a free digital download you will receive via email for you to download and print at home. Now, let’s try my my DIY tree flocking recipe to make fake snow for cheap.
What Is Flocking?
Flocking is the process of adding a snowy texture to your tree. It gives your Christmas tree that beautiful frosty look, as if it’s just been dusted by fresh snow. It’s easier than you think and can be done on artificial or real trees.
So, many people ask, “Why not just use the store bought snow spray?”. My reason is that this looks much more like a real snow dusting. You can see how it pools on the branches more realistically and mimics the look of real snow. Real snow lands heavier on the tips of the tree branches as it falls, so you can apply a thicker coating to the tips to make your fake snow appear much more realistic.
DIY Tree Flocking: How to Make Fake Snow for Cheap
Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following supplies:
- Artificial or real Christmas tree (ensure it’s clean and dry)
- 2 bottles school glue
- 3/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 can shaving foam
- Large drop cloth or bedsheet (to protect your floors)
- Protective gloves
- Optional: Glitter (for a little extra sparkle)
DIY Tree Flocking: How to Make Fake Snow for Cheap
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Set Up Your Workspace
Start by laying down the drop cloth or a bed sheet beneath your tree. Place your tree on the cloth to catch any falling flocking foam. If possible, take the tree outdoors or to a garage to minimize cleanup. I do not have a wide enough doorway to carry my tree in and out once it is assembled, so I did mine indoors right where we usually place the tree.
2. Prepare the Tree
Fluff the branches of your tree to create a natural, full look. If you’re using a real tree, ensure it’s freshly watered and the branches aren’t brittle. I did not put my lights on my tree before. Some people prefer to add the lights first. But I did not want the flocking on the lights.
3. Mix Your Flocking Foam
Mix your ingredients in a very large bowl or bucket. You’ll use the whole can of shaving foam, so prepare for lots of space to mix it. I used a whisk and mixed it in this order.
- Add glue, emptying each bottle fully.
- Add the 3/4 cup cornstarch
- Add the shaving foam slowly. Mix and then add more until you use the whole can of shaving foam.
5. Apply the Flocking Mixture
Use your hands (with gloves) to apply the flocking mix onto the individual branches. For a more realistic effect, focus on the branch tips, mimicking how snow naturally settles. I wore an old t-shirt and some long dishwashing gloves. It does splatter on you a bit but, it washes off easily. By the time I finished, I had some on my face and in my hair. So, I would not recommend doing this in your nice clothes.
6. Optional: Add Glitter
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some fine glitter over the wet flocking mixture. It will add a subtle shimmer that reflects your tree lights beautifully. I did not do this step, but it can be done if you like.
7. Let It Dry
Allow the tree to dry completely, which may take 24-48 hours. Avoid moving or decorating the tree during this time. I let mine dry overnight while we slept to speed the process. The entire application only took about 30 minutes for me from start to finish on my artificial 6 foot tree. I even had enough left over to flock my other greenery on my fireplace and stair rail.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use white lights on your tree to enhance the snowy look.
- Reapply flocking mixture in areas that look thin once the tree is dry.
- Store your artificial tree carefully to preserve the flocking for next year.
Why DIY Flocking Is Worth It
Not only is DIY flocking cost-effective, but it also gives you control over the look and coverage. Whether you want a light dusting or a heavy snowfall effect, you can tailor it to your style. Plus, it’s a fun holiday project the whole family can enjoy (just make sure the kids are wearing gloves, too!).
Transform your Christmas tree into a frosty masterpiece this holiday season. With these simple steps, your tree will look like it’s straight out of a winter fairytale. Happy decorating!
Have you tried this? Let me know your results in the comments below.
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