Decorating a Christmas tree is one of the best parts of the holiday season, but figuring out how many ornaments you need can be tricky. The right number depends on the height of your tree, the size of your ornaments, and whether you prefer a simple look or a full, layered tree.
As a general rule, a 6-foot Christmas tree may need around 60 to 100 ornaments, while a 7- to 7.5-foot tree may need closer to 80 to 150 ornaments. Larger 8- and 9-foot trees can require even more. Use the chart below as a starting point, then adjust based on your decorating style.
How Many Ornaments Do You Need by Tree Height?
Here’s a good starting point for how many ornaments you’ll need, based on a moderately full tree and average-sized ornaments:
| Christmas Tree Height | Lightly Decorated | Full Look |
|---|---|---|
| 4 ft | 30–40 ornaments | 50–60 ornaments |
| 5 ft | 40–50 ornaments | 60–80 ornaments |
| 6 ft | 60–70 ornaments | 90–100 ornaments |
| 7 ft | 70–90 ornaments | 100–130 ornaments |
| 7.5 ft | 80–100 ornaments | 120–150 ornaments |
| 8 ft | 90–110 ornaments | 140–180 ornaments |
| 9 ft | 110–140 ornaments | 180–220 ornaments |
These numbers are a general guide. If you use mostly large ornaments, you may need fewer. If you use lots of small ornaments or want a very full, layered look, you may need more.
What Affects How Many Ornaments You Need?
Tree size and shape matter. A full, wide Christmas tree will usually need more ornaments than a slim or pencil tree of the same height.
Ornament size matters too. Large ornaments cover more space, so you may need fewer of them. Smaller ornaments are great for filling gaps and creating a more layered look.
Your decorating style makes the biggest difference. If you prefer a simple tree with plenty of greenery showing, use the lower end of the chart. If you like a full, collected look with ornaments covering most of the branches, use the higher end.
Mixing ornament sizes usually gives the best result. Start with larger ornaments, add medium ornaments throughout the tree, then use smaller ornaments to fill in open spaces.
Tree Decorating Tips from The Little Ornament Shop
- Start with your largest ornaments. Place larger ornaments around the tree first, spacing them out evenly. They help establish the overall balance before you add smaller pieces.
- Mix shapes, sizes, and textures. Combine round ornaments with novelty shapes, wooden ornaments, shiny finishes, matte finishes, and special keepsakes for a tree that feels collected over time.
- Add depth. Don't hang every ornament on the outer tips of the branches. Tuck some closer to the trunk to create layers and make your tree look fuller.
- Use smaller ornaments to fill gaps. Once your larger and medium ornaments are in place, use smaller ornaments to fill empty spaces without overcrowding the branches.
- Leave a little breathing room. You don't have to cover every inch of the tree. Allowing some greenery to show helps individual ornaments stand out.
- Finish with your topper and ribbon. Add your tree topper last, then adjust ribbon, garland, or bows to balance the finished look.
The Best Trees Tell a Story
Here at The Little Ornament Shop, we believe the best Christmas trees are filled with memories, milestones, and meaning. A tree doesn't have to be perfectly matched to be beautiful. In fact, some of the most meaningful trees are a mix of ornaments collected from vacations, celebrations, hobbies, family milestones, and Christmases past.
Adding personalized and handmade ornaments is an easy way to make your tree feel more like your family. Each year, those ornaments become little reminders of the people, places, and moments you want to remember.
Need a few more ornaments to complete your tree this year?