Assembly

• 1). Assemble your artificial tree in a spot with easy access to an outlet. This allows you to avoid the fire hazard caused by extension cords.
  
  
• 2). Unpack the pieces of your tree. If your tree comes with attached lights, inspect the cords for frayed wires or other damage.
  
  
• 3). Look at the pieces to determine what type of tree you have. Artificial Christmas trees usually come in one of two styles. Many older trees come with a bare trunk that has color-coded holes that hold individual branches. However, some newer trees have branches that are hinged to the trunk and simply flop into place.
  
  
• 4). Set up the Christmas tree stand. Manufacturers produce a wide variety of stands, so refer to the package for specific instructions.
  
  
• 5). Insert the trunk or bottom piece of the trunk into the stand. If you have a tree with a bare trunk, find the color-coded branches that belong on the bottom row and work your way up until all the holes in the portion of the trunk are filled. If your branches are not color-coded, separate them according to size and arrange them in the proper slots. If you have a hinged tree, simply insert the first section of the tree and let the hinged branches fall.
  
  
• 6). Fill in the center and top tree sections. Plug in pre-installed light cords as you go.
  
  

Shaping

• 1). Look at the package to see how your tree was designed to look. Artificial trees may have limbs that point downward, horizontally or upward.
  
  
• 2). Arrange each section before adding the next one so that you can have access to the branches from any angle.
  
  
• 3). Make sure all hinged branches have fallen properly. If you have an older-style tree, make sure each branch is properly fitted into the hole.
  
  
• 4). Bend the branches so that they have slight arches. This helps prevent ornaments from slipping off the tree. Stagger the branches to avoid a geometric look. Shape individual branches and twigs to give them full, natural looks.
  
  
• 5). Shape your tree with the lights on, if applicable. This ensures that the lights are evenly spaced. When you're finished, step back and take a look at your tree from a distance. Fix any spots that need improvement.