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Decorating... is much easier and enjoyable when you use the right tools and equipment to get the job done.  Use the chart below to see the usage, as well as the pros and cons, of various decorating tools.

You see these item icons throughout the design tips found in the decorating sections.
 
Indoor Checklist -

  • Pick out your tree, have the bottom cut and trimmed, place in stand as soon as possible

  • Estimate and purchase your strands of lights, clock timer and extension cord (Go here)
Outdoor Checklist -

  • Create a drawing of what you will be decorating and how you wish to decorate it (Go here)

  • Estimate and purchase the number of light strands needed:

    • 100 lights = 42'  50 lights = 23'  15 lights = 15'
Supplies -

  • Electrical tape

  • Weather-proof timers

  • Outdoor extension cords

  • Light tester

  • Gloves and goggles

















 

ITEM

PROS

CONS

Hooks
and
Nails		 Needs to be installed only once
Can be left in place for years to come		 Takes time to install
Difficult to install in a straight line
Nails will rust
Staples
(1/4")		 Quick installation and removal on wood surfaces
Easy to install in a straight line
Not a permanent fixture		 Bad aim damages light strands
Puts small holes in the eaves
Glue
Gun		 Easy to install in a straight line
Will bond to tile, concrete, non-painted brick, and glass		 Takes time and patience
Leaves marks on surface
Possibility of getting burned
Needs maintenance
Pool
Pole		 Easy, safe access to tree tops
Inexpensive		 Not recommended to use by anyone but an adult
Wire
and
Zip-Ties		 Easy to install
Inexpensive		 Must wrap around object to attach
Must be unwound or cut to remove
Shingle
Tabs		 Easy installation on roofs edge
Quick installation along shingles
Easily removed		 Time consuming
Must place tabs on each individual light
Gutter
Clips		 Easy installation along edge of gutter
Inexpensive
Easily removed		 Time consuming
Difficult to install in a straight line
Siding
Clips		 Easy installation along siding
Easily removed		 Time consuming
Difficult to install in a straight ling
Light
Clips		 Use for installation on glass surfaces
Easy to install in a straight line
Not messy		 Time consuming
Must place clips on each individual light

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