How to Wrap a Tree in Fairy Lights (Indoor & Outdoor, All Year Round)
To wrap a tree in fairy lights, start at the base of the trunk, wind the lights upward and out along the main branches, and keep the spacing even as you go. Work out how many lights you need before you start, since running short halfway up is the most common mistake. This method works all year round, indoors and out, on everything from a small potted tree to a large garden tree.
This guide covers how many lights to buy, the step-by-step method, and the best lights for large outdoor trees.
How many fairy lights do I need to wrap a tree?
As a rule of thumb, allow around 100 LEDs, or 5 metres of string or cluster cable, for every 0.6 metres (2ft) of tree height for standard coverage. So a standard 1.8m (6ft) tree needs roughly 300 LEDs.
That figure is for a lightly dressed tree. For wrapping a tree fully, trunk and branches, you need more, because you are covering far more surface than the height alone. For good all-round coverage of a 6ft tree, aim for about 30 metres of lights, and up to 45 metres for a really dense, gap-free look. Cluster lights achieve the same density in less length, because the bulbs sit closer together.
People almost always underestimate, so order slightly more than you think you need. For an exact figure based on your tree’s height and coverage, use the Christmas tree light calculator, which works just as well for a garden tree in summer.
How to wrap a tree in fairy lights
- Measure your tree. Note the height and, for a full wrap, the trunk and main branches. Use this to work out your length before you buy.
- Choose your lights. Pick your type and colour, and for an outdoor tree choose a set rated IP44 or higher. Browse the fairy lights range for indoor and outdoor options.
- Start at the base of the trunk. Tuck the first bulb in near the bottom, keeping the power end within reach of your socket, and begin winding upward.
- Wrap upward and out. Wind the lights up the trunk in an even spiral, then follow each main branch out to the tip and back, so the shape of the tree is picked out.
- Keep the spacing even. Aim for consistent gaps between each pass. Closer wraps give a denser, brighter look; wider wraps use less length.
- Secure and power up. Tuck the final bulb in securely, check the wrap from a few steps back, and switch on. Adjust any gaps before you settle.
String vs cluster vs micro lights for trees
Cluster lights pack bulbs close together for dense coverage with less cable. Here is how the three main types compare.
- String (fairy) lights. Classic, evenly spaced bulbs. Best for everyday tree lighting and a traditional look.
- Cluster lights. Dense, high-impact sparkle. Best for full, thick trees and maximum coverage.
- Micro or firefly lights. Delicate bulbs on fine wire for a subtle effect. Best for a soft, understated look indoors.
For a fuller look with less length to wrap, cluster lights are the shortcut, since 250 LEDs sit on each 5m cable.
Wrapping large outdoor and garden trees
For a big tree, use a connectable system so you can light the whole thing from a single plug rather than juggling extension leads. ConnectGo® is the low-voltage range for garden trees, letting you link multiple sets safely from one source. For very large trees and long runs, the ConnectPro® system handles the length and load a tall tree demands.
For any outdoor tree, check the IP rating. Look for IP44 or higher, which is rated to stay outside in British weather. Our guide to IP ratings explains what each figure resists.
Year-round tree lighting ideas
Garden trees in summer. A wrapped tree turns a garden into an evening space, glowing over a patio or seating area long after sunset.
Weddings and parties. Lit trees make a magical backdrop for an outdoor celebration, and cluster lights give that dense, photogenic sparkle.
Patio and potted trees. A small olive, bay or acer in a pot takes a delicate string of micro lights beautifully, indoors or out.
Christmas. The classic. The same method dresses your Christmas tree, and the calculator sizes it exactly.
FAQ
How many fairy lights do I need to wrap a tree?
Allow around 100 LEDs or 5 metres per 0.6m (2ft) of height for light coverage, so about 300 LEDs for a 6ft tree. For a full wrap of trunk and branches, aim for around 30 metres, or up to 45 metres for dense coverage.
How do I wrap fairy lights around a tree?
Start at the base of the trunk, wind the lights upward in an even spiral, follow each main branch out and back, and keep the spacing consistent. Secure the end and switch on.
Should I start wrapping at the top or the bottom?
Start at the bottom of the trunk, keeping the power end near your socket, and work upward. This keeps the plug within reach and makes the spiral easier to control.
What lights are best for a large garden tree?
Connectable lights, so you can run the whole tree from one plug. Use ConnectGo® for most garden trees and ConnectPro® for very large trees and long runs. Cluster lights add dense coverage with less cable.
Can I leave fairy lights on an outdoor tree in the rain?
Yes, if they are weatherproof. Check the IP rating and choose IP44 or higher for outdoor use, which is built to withstand rain and damp.
Light up your tree, any time of year
Wrapping a tree in fairy lights is simple once you have the right length: measure, start at the base, wind up and out, and keep the spacing even. Do it for the garden in summer, a wedding, a potted patio tree or Christmas.
Ready to start? Browse the outdoor fairy lights range and light up your tree.