Diamonds Are a Fir’s Best Friend

Author Cassie Kitzmiller shares her design secrets using the “Diamond Technique” to create a composition that balances all the elements you’ll add to your tree.

• Make sure the item you fashion your diamond out of is unified, with an outline that looks cohesive and not distracting.

• Secondly, make sure the item you choose is just large enough to stand out. You want the shape to be apparent yet controlled.

• Lastly, select an item that fits the intended theme or style you’ve chosen beforehand (Kitzmiller suggests using a tree bouquet—a combination of items such as ribbon, greenery or flowers bundled together—or a bow).

and ABOVE| Design a custom topper. Create something the silver bells will have to jingle about!