Tree Time

Tips from a professional decorator on how to make your tree extra special this year.

ORNAMENTS

* Heavy ornaments should be tucked closer to the trunk of the tree where branches are strong; hang lighter ornaments on tips of branches.

Cluster effect

* Add emphasis by grouping ornaments with the same theme in one spot.

* Glass balls hung in groups of three reflect light more dramatically.

Personal touch

* Stuffed toys, figurines, small framed photographs and mementos from a vacation can double as ornaments. Secure heavy or fragile objects by wrapping the hook twice around the branch or tying the object to the tree with fishing line.

LIGHTS

* Use 100 to 200 lights per foot of tree height. For example, a 6-foot-tall tree needs at least six 100-light strings.

* Untangle the strands by stringing them out on the floor. Check for missing bbulbs, nicked insulation and exposed wires.

Attaching them

* Method No. 1

Starting at the top, carefully work the wires between the branches, hiding the wires in the greenery. Attach bulbs to tips of branches by separating the wires and slipping the branches through them.

* Method No. 2:

This works best on artificial trees. Starting at the top, wrap individual branches from the trunk outward, then back again.

Graphics reporting by JANICE JONES DODDS/ Los Angeles Times

Source: Tina Bushling, Roger’s Gardens