How to Create the Best Victorian Christmas Tree
Turn an Ordinary Tree into an Old Fashioned Victorian Showstopper
Nov 4, 2009
Victorian Christmas trees may be thought of as the original modern Christmas tree. Although the tradition of a Christmas tree began with the Germans, the elaborate decoration of the trees was popularized by the Victorians. They decorated the tree ornately with ornaments, ribbons, and candles that made it an incredible sight to behold. With some caution and know-how, the legendary beauty and luxury of Victorian Christmas trees may be recreated in a modern home.
Pretty Ribbon in a Must to Achieve the Victorian Look
A Victorian Christmas tree always has some sort of garland wrapped around it, usually in the firm of opulent, thick ribbon made of organza or grosgain, strings of beads or in many cases - both. Ribbon or beads may be wrapped in a spiral pattern beginning at the top, or draped in repeated U shapes around the entire tree. Once this is complete, more ribbon in a matching color may be tied into bows and placed on the tree in evenly spaced intervals.
For a modern twist on a Victorian Christmas tree, purchase silk or organza ribbon spools that have the metal bendable edging. Create long, spiraling, romantic swirls in six or seven foot lengths. Attach each length to the very top of the tree and have 4-6 lengths cascading down the Christmas tree in a carousel or circus tent effect. If you use glittering organza, the evening effect is truly magical.
A Victorian Christmas Tree Needs Lots of Ornamentation
The ornamentation of a Victorian Christmas tree depends largely upon the personal preferences of the family adorning it. Many Victorian families used modest ornaments like shaped gingerbread, fruit, pinecones, or paper cones filled with treats. In late Victorian times, delicate glass ornaments and gold or silver cutouts became the preferred style. Very popular ornament forms from the Victorian era included flora and fauna, such as a robin bird made of stunning hand painted mercury glass perched delicately among the tree branches.
Victorians also used many handmade items to decorate a Christmas tree and materials often used included paper mache, ornamental paper, and items from nature such as holly, berries, twigs and flowers. Even for a family on a modest budget, this look can be achieved and might be fun for the kids to collect.
The important thing when decorating a Victorian style tree is abundance. There should be no spot on the tree left without Christmas tree ornaments. For those stuck for ideas, do a Google search for “traditional Victorian tree” and search the image directory – lots of great ideas.
Use Candles with Caution and Look for Modern Alternatives
In the Victorian era, candles in glass or decorated holders would be placed in the branches of the tree. As this is a severe fire hazard, it’s a better idea to use imitation candles or simply strings of lights for a pretty, illuminated effect.
It is not advisable to use traditional style candles – even when someone is home. The needles of a Christmas tree become drier with each passing day and can ignite with very little effort if a fire source is nearby. To include the candle effect, display them safely on a festive mantle.
The Finishing Touch is the Tree Topper
The final touch for a Victorian style Christmas tree is an angel on top. Traditionally, Victorian angels were pale faced, with a full gold skirt and spun glass for wings. If an angel like this cannot be found, any sort of angel or cherub Christmas tree topper will do.
The opulence of Victorian Christmas trees are responsible for the ornamentation traditional to Christmas trees today. For a luxurious throwback to the trees of the Victorian era, modern Christmas trees may be decorated in the elaborate Victorian style and it doesn't have to cost a lot either.
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