Our vision of the perfect Christmas tree has several parts. It starts with a beautifully shaped tree and includes shiny ornaments and an attractive tree topper. But the vision isn't complete without one more thing: a tree skirt.
A Christmas tree without a tree skirt often looks a bit naked, yet the setting for your tree may still appear a bit off if you don’t use the right size tree skirt.
What is a Christmas Tree Skirt
A traditional Christmas accessory, a Christmas tree skirt is a decorative cloth that surrounds a Christmas tree. A tree skirt hugs the base of the tree and adds a finishing touch to the setting.
Usually circular, you’ll also find tree skirts that are faceted, scalloped, or shaped like stars or snowflakes.
Why Use a Tree Skirt?
A decorative tree skirt completes the look of your Christmas tree. Whether you choose a classic red tree skirt or a plaid skirt for a traditional look, or pair a silver tree skirt with a flocked Christmas tree for a winter wonderland theme, tree skirts complement the colors, theme or style of your holiday decor.
When placed under a live Christmas tree, a tree skirt helps catch fallen needles and protects floors from sap. It also hides the tree stand and electrical wires from your Christmas lights and accessories.
Plus, a tree skirt is a soft and pretty backdrop for displaying your beautifully-wrapped Christmas presents!
How to Measure for a Tree Skirt
Christmas tree skirt sizes vary. How do you know which size tree skirt to buy?
The best way to determine the right size skirt for your Christmas tree is to measure the tree.
First, measure the width of your tree at its widest point. Then, add about six inches to your measurement. For example, if your tree is 54” wide, look for a tree skirt with a diameter of 60” or so.
A skirt that’s a bit wider than the tree will have enough depth to cover the tree stand and extend a little beyond the branches. A skirt that extends too far beyond the width of the tree could pose a tripping hazard.
Pay attention to the scale of your tree. Usually, smaller trees need smaller tree skirts. Conversely, taller Christmas trees are typically wider at the base, requiring a larger tree skirt. However, if you have a tall, slim Christmas tree, you might want to consider a large tree skirt that will look proportional to the tree’s height.
Adjust your measurements as needed if you will be displaying the tree on a table or stand, or in a tight corner.
How to Care for Your Tree Skirt
Not all tree skirts are machine washable, so check the care label. Spot cleaning may be recommended.
After Christmas, examine the tree skirt for spots and damage. Shake loose any needles and debris and wash the tree skirt according to instructions. Like other textiles, store tree skirts in a way that will protect them from dirt, dampness and dust.
Tree Skirt Alternatives
A Christmas tree collar is a modern, trendy alternative to a tree skirt. The trunk-hugging box or drum-shaped decoration is typically compact and erect. It wraps around the base of the Christmas tree and doesn’t extend beyond the branch structure. Tree collars may be made of wood, metal or plastic.
Because of their added height, tree collars are an attractive way to hide an artificial tree stand, the container of a potted tree or the root ball of a tree meant for replanting.
Before you buy a decorative tree collar, measure the distance from the lowest branches of your Christmas tree to the floor. Your tree collar should fit below the branches.
Many tree collars come in separate or hinged segments that can be assembled before or after you decorate. However, if your tree collar is one piece, be sure to place it around the base of the tree stand before inserting your Christmas tree.
A new Christmas tree skirt or collar can add a polished finishing touch to your holiday décor. By measuring your tree’s width and considering its height and setting, you can find a skirt that beautifully complements your tree.