Elsa Beskow Ornament Display Ideas for Your Tree

By Scandinavian Design & Timeless Interiors | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: Tips & Care

Learn how to display Elsa Beskow Christmas tree ornaments with these practical styling tips, from placement to lighting and storage.

Quick Answer

To display an Elsa Beskow Christmas tree ornament beautifully, choose a visible branch at eye level or slightly above, use a gentle hook to avoid damaging the lacquered paper, and pair it with soft, warm lighting to highlight the hand-placed patterns.

Why Placement Matters for These Ornaments

Elsa Beskow ornaments are made from lacquered paper, which is feather light and delicate. This means they can be easily bumped or scratched if placed in high-traffic areas or on low branches where pets and children might brush against them.

Because the patterns are hand-placed, each ornament has a unique charm. Placing it where it can be seen up close, rather than buried deep in the tree, lets you appreciate the intricate details and the story it tells.

Lighting and Backdrop Tips

Warm white lights, rather than cool or colored ones, complement the soft, nostalgic feel of Elsa Beskow's artwork. Avoid placing the ornament directly against a bright light source, as the lacquered surface can reflect glare and distract from the pattern.

A dark green tree provides a classic contrast that makes the ornament's colors pop. If you have a flocked or artificial tree with a lighter tone, consider placing the ornament near a cluster of deeper-colored ornaments to frame it.

Step-by-Step Display Guide

Choose the Right Branch: Select a branch that is sturdy enough to hold the ornament without sagging. Aim for a spot at eye level or slightly above, where the ornament can be seen without being in the way. Avoid low branches near pets or children. Check that the branch is not too thin or brittle before hanging.
Use a Gentle Hook: Attach a thin, non-scratch ornament hook (plastic or coated wire) to the ornament's hanging loop. Avoid using thick or rough hooks that could damage the lacquered paper surface. Gently loop it through the existing string or loop. Test the hook on a less visible spot first to ensure it doesn't scratch.
Consider the Surroundings: Place the ornament where it won't rub against other ornaments or branches. Give it a little breathing room so the hand-placed pattern can be admired without obstruction. If you have multiple Elsa Beskow ornaments, space them evenly across the tree. Step back and check that the ornament is not overcrowded.
Light It Warmly: Position the ornament near warm white lights, but not directly touching a bulb. The soft glow will highlight the pattern without creating harsh glare on the lacquered surface. Turn on the lights and view the ornament from different angles to ensure it looks its best.
Handle with Care When Adjusting: If you need to move the ornament, hold it by the loop or the edges, not by pressing on the paper surface. Avoid bending the paper, as it can crease or crack. Always re-hang by the loop, never force the ornament onto a branch.
Store Properly After the Holidays: When the season ends, wrap the ornament in soft tissue paper and place it in a sturdy box with dividers. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the lacquered finish. Label the box so you know which ornaments are inside next year.

About the Ornament

Elsa Beskow Christmas Tree Ornament: Elsa Beskow's patterns have carefully, all by hand, been placed on feather light Christmas ornaments, made from lacquered paper. The hand-placed patterns and lacquered paper mean you should handle the ornament gently and avoid placing it where it could be easily knocked or scratched.
Elsa Beskow Christmas Tree Ornament