Fake snow

This article is about imitation snow. For artificially created real snow, see Snowmaking.
A White House decoration volunteer throws fake snow onto a Christmas tree at the White House

Fake snow is any product which simulates the appearance and texture of snow, without being made from frozen crystalline water.

Fake snow has been made from many materials. In the early 1900s, decorative snow was sometimes made from borax flakes and even ammonia.[1]

Before the dangers of asbestos were known, the substance was sold for Christmas tree decoration. Gypsum was also used to simulate snow in films, including The Wizard of Oz and Citizen Kane.[2] Actor Lon Chaney died after fake snow was lodged in his throat.

Fake snow has also been sold in spray cans which could apply the flocking to windows and indoor displays.[3]

  1. ^ Derek McCormack (1 October 2005). Christmas Days: From Fake Snow to Santalands, The Things That Make Christmas Christmas. House of Anansi Press Incorporated. p. 13. ISBN 978-0-88784-946-6.
  2. ^ "Was Fake Snow made from asbestos marketed as Christmas decor?". Snopes. Bethania Palma, 22 December 2017.
  3. ^ " A look at Christmas tree tech from the 1940s through today". Digitrends, By Brinke Guthrie — November 26, 2016