Christmas Decorations

Choosing Christmas decorations is about creating balance between colour, scale, texture and the style of your tree or room. A good display usually combines a few larger pieces that create structure with smaller baubles and hanging decorations that fill the branches, rather than treating every ornament as the same size or importance.

At Newlands Home & Garden Centre, the current Christmas decorations range includes glass and shatterproof baubles, hanging ornaments, bells and bows, tree toppers, festive figures, Disney and character decorations, large statement pieces and decorations made from materials including glass, plastic, foam, resin, acrylic, wood, metal and textiles.

For hotels, retail stores, offices, restaurants and event venues, explore Large Christmas Display Props for oversized decorations and statement pieces suited to larger festive displays.

Our 2026 range includes decorations from suppliers such as Kaemingk, Gisela Graham, Heaven Sends, Wurm, Richard Lang & Son, Jolipa, BOLTZE, Premier Decorations and EDG. Use this guide to choose the right mix for your Christmas tree and coordinate the decorations with the rest of your festive home.

What Christmas decorations do I need for a tree?

Most Christmas trees look more complete when they use several types of decoration rather than one ornament repeated everywhere.

A useful starting structure is:

• Christmas lights to create the base layer of illumination.
• Large baubles and statement ornaments to establish colour and depth.
• Medium and smaller baubles to fill gaps between branches.
• Hanging decorations to add personality, shape and detail.
• Bows, bells or decorative accents to repeat colour and texture around the tree.
• A tree topper to finish the upper section.

Browse Christmas Baubles, Christmas Hanging Decorations, Christmas Bells & Bows and Christmas Tree Toppers to build the main layers of the display.

What order should I decorate a Christmas tree?

If the tree is unlit, start with the Christmas Lights. Positioning lights first allows the cable to sit deeper in the branches and prevents decorations from being moved later.

Next add any ribbon, bows or larger decorative features. These create the broad visual structure of the tree and are easier to position before smaller ornaments are added.

Then place the largest baubles and statement hanging decorations, followed by medium and smaller decorations. Finish with special ornaments, sentimental pieces and a Christmas Tree Topper.

Work around the tree gradually rather than completely decorating one side at a time. Step back regularly and look for areas that appear too dense, too empty or too repetitive.

How many Christmas decorations do I need?

There is no single correct number because the result depends on the height and width of the tree, the size of the decorations and how full you want the finished display to look.

A slim tree and a full-profile tree of the same height can require very different quantities because the wider tree has considerably more branch area to decorate.

Large ornaments also cover more visual space than small baubles, so a tree using many oversized decorations may need fewer individual pieces than a tree decorated mainly with smaller ornaments.

Instead of shopping by a fixed number, build the tree in layers. Add your larger pieces first, step back, then use medium and smaller decorations to fill the remaining gaps. This makes it easier to stop when the tree looks balanced rather than overcrowded.

If you are choosing the tree at the same time, compare the different sizes and profiles in our Artificial Christmas Trees collection.

How do I mix different sizes of Christmas baubles?

Using more than one bauble size gives the tree greater depth.

Place larger baubles slightly deeper in the branches or in visually empty areas. They create strong blocks of colour and help fill space around the centre of the tree.

Use medium baubles across the main visible branches, then finish with smaller baubles towards the outer tips and in tighter spaces.

Try not to arrange equal-sized baubles in perfect horizontal rows. Varying the height and depth makes the decoration feel more natural and less repetitive.

Browse Christmas Baubles to compare different sizes, colours, finishes and materials.

Glass or shatterproof Christmas baubles?

Both have advantages, and many trees use a mixture of the two.

Glass baubles can provide a more delicate, reflective and detailed finish. They work particularly well where the light from the tree can catch glossy, metallic or transparent surfaces.

Shatterproof baubles are a more practical choice for busy family homes, trees positioned in high-traffic areas or places where an ornament may be knocked from a lower branch.

Kaemingk's Decoris range includes both glass and unbreakable Christmas baubles. The supplier also uses different manufacturing techniques across its ornament range, including hand-blown, hand-painted and machine-made production.

The current range at Newlands Home & Garden Centre contains both glass and shatterproof options, allowing you to use more delicate pieces higher on the tree and durable decorations in areas where they are more likely to be touched.

How do I choose hanging Christmas decorations?

Christmas Hanging Decorations are where a tree can become more personal.

Instead of relying only on round baubles, hanging ornaments introduce different silhouettes such as stars, clocks, animals, food and drink designs, winter characters, vehicles, houses, icicles, fairies and novelty pieces.

Choose some decorations that support your main colour scheme and a smaller number that act as focal points. Repeating a colour, material or motif in several areas of the tree helps even very different ornaments feel connected.

Place heavier decorations on stronger inner branches and lighter pieces towards the tips. Always use the hanger supplied or an appropriate ornament hook and make sure the decoration is secure before letting go.

How do I decorate with statement ornaments?

Statement decorations are larger or more detailed pieces designed to attract attention. They can include oversized ornaments, decorative figures, large bows, special glass pieces or character decorations.

Use them first, before filling the tree with smaller decorations. This gives each statement piece enough visual space and prevents the tree from becoming crowded.

Odd-numbered groups can work well when several related decorations are used together, but symmetry is not essential. The aim is to distribute visual weight around the tree rather than repeat an identical pattern.

For larger freestanding and decorative pieces beyond the branches, browse Christmas Figures & Ornaments.

How should I use Christmas bells and bows?

Christmas Bells & Bows are useful for introducing larger areas of colour and texture without adding another round bauble.

Bows can be repeated vertically, spiralled loosely around the tree or positioned between clusters of ornaments. Larger bows work well as strong focal points, while smaller bows can be used to repeat a colour across several branches.

Bells can be treated as either hanging ornaments or statement details, depending on their size. Metallic bells can also help repeat gold, silver, brass or bronze finishes already used elsewhere in the scheme.

If your tree has several different ornament styles, repeating the same bow colour in a few places can help tie the overall design together.

How do I choose a Christmas tree topper?

The best topper should suit the scale of the tree as well as the decorating style.

Before buying, measure the space between the top of the tree and the ceiling. Allow enough clearance for the topper itself and for the tree to stand naturally without being pushed down from above.

Also check how the topper attaches. Some styles use a spiral base, clip or support frame, while others need a strong upper branch.

A large topper can look out of proportion on a small or slim tree, while a very small topper can disappear visually on a tall, broad tree.

Browse Christmas Tree Toppers for stars, angels and other finishing pieces.

How do I choose a Christmas colour scheme?

Start with two or three main colours rather than choosing every decoration independently.

A traditional scheme may use red, green and gold. A softer winter display can combine white, silver, champagne or pale blue. More colourful trees can use bright tones, candy-inspired colours or multicolour ornaments.

The finishes matter as much as the colours. Glossy, matt, glitter, transparent, metallic, velvet and natural textures can all sit within the same palette while creating contrast.

If you already own decorations you want to reuse, make those your starting point and buy new pieces that repeat one of their colours or finishes. This is usually easier than replacing the whole tree scheme every year.

Can I mix different materials on one Christmas tree?

Yes. Mixing materials can make a tree more interesting, provided the colours and overall style remain coordinated.

The current range at Newlands Home & Garden Centre includes decorations made from glass, shatterproof plastic, foam, resin, acrylic, wood, metal and fabric. Each material reflects light differently and creates a different visual texture.

Glass and metallic finishes add shine. Velvet and textile bows create softness. Wood and natural-looking materials can make a scheme feel warmer and more rustic. Acrylic and transparent ornaments can catch the light without adding as much visual weight.

Rather than using only one material, repeat each main finish in several places around the tree so the combination feels deliberate.

How do Christmas lights affect the colour of decorations?

Lighting changes how decorations appear, especially metallic, transparent and glass ornaments.

Warm white and classic warm white lights tend to strengthen gold, red, bronze and traditional colours. Cooler white lighting can make silver, white, blue and icy finishes appear crisper.

Transparent glass and acrylic decorations become more noticeable when placed near a light source because the illumination can pass through or reflect from the ornament.

If the lighting is an important part of your scheme, choose the lights before buying a large quantity of decorations. Explore Christmas Lights for warm white, classic warm white, soft gold, cool white and multicolour options.

How do I decorate a slim Christmas tree?

A slim tree has less branch area than a full-profile tree, so large decorations need to be used more selectively.

Use a smaller number of statement pieces and keep the visual weight distributed vertically. Medium and smaller hanging decorations often work particularly well because they do not project as far from the tree.

Longer vertical details such as bows, icicles and elongated ornaments can emphasise the height of the tree without making it feel too wide.

If floor space is limited, browse Slim Artificial Christmas Trees and then choose decorations to suit the narrower profile.

How do I decorate a snowy or frosted Christmas tree?

A snowy tree already has a strong visual finish, so decorations do not need to do all of the work.

White, silver, champagne, gold and transparent decorations can continue the winter effect, while red, green or brighter colours create stronger contrast against the snow.

Do not assume a snowy tree must use only white decorations. A darker or richer ornament can stand out particularly well because the pale foliage provides a neutral background.

Browse Snowy & Frosted Artificial Christmas Trees if you are building the tree and decoration scheme together.

How do I create a traditional Christmas tree?

A traditional tree usually relies on familiar festive colours, recognisable Christmas motifs and warm lighting.

Red, green and gold provide an easy starting palette. Combine round baubles with bells, bows, Santas, angels, stars, woodland details and classic hanging ornaments.

Warm white or classic warm white lights help maintain a softer traditional glow, while a star or angel topper provides a familiar finishing detail.

You can add further depth around the room with Christmas Garlands & Wreaths and Artificial Christmas Flowers & Foliage.

How do I create a themed Christmas tree?

A themed tree works best when the theme guides the colours and materials rather than requiring every ornament to be identical.

Newlands Home & Garden Centre has dedicated Christmas theme collections that make it easier to build a coordinated look:

• Once Upon A Christmas for nostalgic, story-led festive decorating.
• Merry & Bright for a brighter, more playful Christmas palette.
• Country Christmas for a classic, warm and traditional atmosphere.
• Winter Wishes for a softer winter-inspired look.
• Christmas Wonder for a more magical statement scheme.

You do not need to buy every decoration from one theme. Use the theme as the core direction, then mix in existing pieces that repeat the same colours, textures or mood.

How do I decorate with Disney and character decorations?

Disney & Character Decorations can be used across an entire tree or as a smaller feature within a more traditional scheme.

For a dedicated character tree, repeat a limited number of supporting bauble colours around the ornaments so the display still feels coordinated.

For a mixed family tree, place character decorations at eye level or on prominent outer branches where the detail can be seen easily. Combine them with simpler baubles so the character pieces remain the focal points.

The current range at Newlands Home & Garden Centre includes character-led resin and hanging decorations from Gisela Graham alongside more traditional ornament styles.

How do I use Christmas figures and ornaments around the home?

Not every Christmas decoration needs to hang on the tree.

Christmas Figures & Ornaments can be used on sideboards, console tables, shelves, mantels, windowsills and entrance displays.

Use different heights to create a stronger arrangement. A taller Santa, nutcracker or festive figure can act as the main feature, while smaller ornaments and greenery fill the area around it.

For room-level decorating beyond the tree, combine these pieces with Christmas Home & Décor.

How do I coordinate the Christmas tree with the rest of the room?

Repeat a few colours or materials from the tree elsewhere in the room rather than trying to copy the whole tree design.

For example, a gold bow used on the tree can be repeated in a wreath, garland or table arrangement. Red berries from the tree can be echoed in artificial foliage, while the same warm-white light colour can be used across the mantel and window display.

Continue the scheme with Christmas Garlands & Wreaths, Artificial Christmas Flowers & Foliage and Christmas Home & Décor.

How should I decorate around the base of the tree?

The base is easy to overlook, but finishing it can make the whole tree look more complete.

A Christmas Tree Skirt can hide the stand and create a more polished area for presents.

If the existing stand needs to be replaced or you need practical storage for the tree after Christmas, browse Christmas Tree Stand & Storage.

Keep fragile decorations and electrical cables away from areas where presents are likely to be moved frequently.

Which Christmas decorations are best for homes with children or pets?

Consider where decorations will be positioned rather than assuming every ornament is equally suitable for every branch.

Shatterproof and lightweight decorations are practical on lower branches or in areas that may be touched. More delicate glass ornaments can be positioned higher on the tree or in less accessible areas.

Avoid loosely balanced decorations, long trailing cords and small detachable pieces in areas accessible to young children or pets. Make sure the tree itself is stable and that larger decorations are securely attached.

If a decoration contains batteries, lights or moving parts, follow the product instructions and keep the battery compartment secure.

How should I store Christmas decorations?

Good storage protects the finish of decorations and makes the following Christmas easier to organise.

Keep original boxes and inserts for fragile glass, resin or detailed ornaments where practical. Wrap delicate pieces individually and avoid placing heavy decorations directly on top of them.

Separate decorations by type or colour so they are easier to find next year. Baubles can be stored in divided boxes, while bows and fabric decorations should be stored without being tightly compressed.

Remove batteries from battery-operated ornaments before long-term storage and keep decorations in a clean, dry location away from excessive heat or moisture.

Christmas Decorations FAQs

Should Christmas lights or decorations go on the tree first?

Lights should normally go on first. This lets you position the cable deeper inside the branches and distribute the lights evenly without moving decorations later.

Browse Christmas Lights before adding baubles and hanging decorations.

Should large or small baubles go on first?

Large baubles should usually be positioned first because they need the most space. Place them deeper in the branches or in obvious gaps, then use medium and smaller ornaments to complete the surface of the tree.

Can I mix glass and shatterproof baubles?

Yes. Using both is practical and visually effective. Shatterproof baubles can cover lower or busier areas of the tree, while glass ornaments can be positioned where their reflective finish and detail will be seen more clearly.

Can I mix gold and silver Christmas decorations?

Yes. Gold and silver can work together if they are repeated across the tree rather than appearing as isolated pieces. A neutral colour such as white, clear glass or champagne can help connect the two metallic finishes.

How do I stop a Christmas tree looking too busy?

Limit the main colour palette, repeat several ornament styles and leave some foliage visible between decorations. If every branch contains a different colour, shape and texture, the tree can lose its overall structure.

How do I make a Christmas tree look fuller with decorations?

Use larger baubles deeper inside the branches, place decorations at different depths rather than only on the tips, and repeat clusters of colour around the tree. Bows and larger hanging ornaments can also fill visually empty spaces.

What is the best Christmas decoration for the top of the tree?

The best topper is one that suits the size and style of the tree and can be attached securely. Stars and angels are classic choices, but the available clearance above the tree and the strength of the upper branch are just as important as the design.

Can Disney decorations be mixed with traditional Christmas decorations?

Yes. Character ornaments can become focal points within a traditional tree when they are surrounded by simpler baubles in coordinating colours. Browse Disney & Character Decorations for the current range.

What decorations are safest on lower branches?

Lightweight, shatterproof decorations are generally more practical on lower branches, especially in busy homes. Keep fragile glass ornaments and small detachable pieces in more protected positions.

Where can I buy Christmas decorations in Ireland?

Shop the full Christmas Decorations collection online at Newlands Home & Garden Centre, with delivery options across Ireland and Click & Collect available. You can also visit our Christmas showroom in Dublin 22 to see selected decorations, trees and festive displays in person.

Complete your Christmas decorating scheme

Build your tree with Christmas Baubles, Christmas Hanging Decorations, Christmas Bells & Bows, Christmas Tree Toppers, Christmas Figures & Ornaments and Disney & Character Decorations.

Then coordinate the wider display with Christmas Lights, Artificial Christmas Trees, Christmas Garlands & Wreaths, Artificial Christmas Flowers & Foliage and Christmas Home & Décor.

Before ordering, compare the individual decoration's size, material, weight, hanging method and finish so it suits both the tree and the position where you plan to display it.