Snag a realistic fake Xmas tree
- by Diane Rixon on Nov 27th 2007 8:00AM
- seasonal
Thankfully, we live in the age of convincingly real-looking fake Christmas trees. So if you're tired of the mess and expense of yet another real tree, consider shopping around for a good-looking faker. Just do your homework first. Here are some tips from the site Artificial Trees:- The more branches the better. They make your tree look natural...and they hide the pole in the center.
- Look for a sturdy metal stand with rubber tips on the feet, which will protect your floor.
- The more expensive trees have time-saving "hinged" branches. Spring for that if you can afford it.
- Buying online? Look for sites that offer high-res closeup pics so you know exactly what you're getting.
- Let me say again: you should not be able to see the pole!
- Consider whether or not to get a pre-lit tree. Yes, pre-lit adds to the fake-factor. But, hey, in for a penny in for a pound. Some pre-lit trees nowadays come with a remote, so you can switch at the press of a button from clear to colored lights. Wow.
So, which is better: fake or real? I'm not getting into the whole issue of the environment here. As far as I'm concerned, it's a personal thing. But if you want to weigh your choice, here's a handy list of the pros and cons in the real vs. fake debate.
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