How to Make the Cutest Little Christmas Tree Window

I’ll be honest—there’s something magical about twinkly lights in unexpected places. Last year, with zero space left for a traditional tree (hello, too-big couch), I had a lightbulb moment: what if the window was the tree?

It turns out, creating a tree shape with string lights on glass is not only stunning—it’s totally renter-safe and a breeze to put up.

1. Clean and Plan the Window

1.1 Clean the surface thoroughly

Wipe the entire glass surface where you’ll apply the hooks. This ensures the adhesive sticks well and reduces any risk of the hooks peeling off.

Take a minute to inspect for streaks, grease or smudges and remove them. A clean canvas = a clean stick!

1.2 Outline your tree shape

Use a piece of painter’s tape or a washable marker to draw the triangle shape of your tree directly on the window.

This gives you a guide to follow, so your lights create the tree silhouette instead of a random zigzag.

2. Apply the Hooks

2.1 Choose the correct hooks

Opt for clear hooks or light clips—these are less visible.

If you’ll be hanging ornaments, mark those spots too.

I recommend placing the top hook upright; it's the best for a star topper, while sideways hooks can work for string lights.

2.2 Installing the hooks

• Peel the liner from the adhesive strip.
• Press the hook onto the window surface firmly for approximately 30 seconds.
• Place a hook at each point of your tree outline (i.e., corners, base points, mid‑points) so you’ll have a clean route for the lights.

2.3 Wait some time

It’s tempting to dive straight into hanging lights, but let the adhesive “cure” for about one hour before adding anything heavy.

Waiting the full time ensures the bond is at full strength.

3. Add the Lights

Start at the bottom of your tree outline and weave your string lights back and forth between the hooks, working your way up.

Doing this gives you a full silhouette shape and great coverage.

Here’s how:

• Plug in your lights to test they all work before mounting.
• Begin at the lowest hook on one side of your triangle. Tuck the wire into the hook.
• Move diagonally or straight across to the opposite side hook, and repeat upward in a zig‑zag or back‑and‑forth pattern until you reach the top.
• If you have a long string, you can repeat the zig‑zag pattern inside your triangle shape to make it brighter.

4. Decorate

4.1 Hang your ornaments

Use additional small hooks or clips to hang your lightweight ornaments.

You can place one hook per ornament for the neatest look.

4.2 Star or topper

At the very top of the tree shape, choose an upright hook and hang your star or tree topper.

Make sure it’s light enough so it doesn’t pull the hook off!

4.3 Heavier items? Use stronger hooks

If you’ve got something weightier (for example a larger glass ornament or heavier star), go for the medium‑duty hooks (e.g., Command Medium hooks).

Pro tips for best results

• Use warm white lights for a cozy glow or coloured lights for a festive punch.
• Try to keep the plug accessible—run the cord down a window frame discreetly.
• Use painter’s tape to test your outline before committing.
• Don’t overload one hook with too many lights or ornaments—spread the weight.
• At the end of the season, remove the hooks by sliding upward (if the brand says so) to minimise residue or damage.

Christmas Tree Window Tutorial

This DIY window tree, featuring string lights, is perfect for small homes, apartments, or anyone who wants to add a second tree without sacrificing space.

It's elegant, customizable, and all you need are some clear hooks, a string of lights, and a little holiday spirit.