Decorating your Christmas tree is one of the best parts of the holiday season, and using ribbon is a fantastic way to make your tree stand out. Ribbon adds a touch of elegance, whether you’re going for a classic look, a modern vibe, or something totally unique.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know on how to decorate your Christmas tree professionally with a ribbon. From choosing the right ribbon to nailing the perfect technique, you’ll have all the tips and tricks to create a beautiful holiday centerpiece.
Things To Consider
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when decorating your Christmas tree with ribbon.
Compare Different Ribbon Materials
The type of ribbon you choose can make a big difference in the overall look of your tree. Here are a few popular options:
- Satin Ribbons: Smooth and shiny, satin ribbons bring a touch of luxury to your tree.
- Velvet Ribbons: Velvet adds a rich, plush texture—perfect for a cozy holiday vibe.
- Burlap Ribbons: Burlap is great for a rustic, farmhouse feel with its natural look.
- Wired Ribbons: Wired edges make it easy to shape your ribbon just the way you want it.
Choose Colors & Patterns That Pop
When it comes to colors and patterns, think about the overall theme of your Christmas decorations. Traditional reds, golds, and greens are always a hit, but don’t be afraid to mix things up with metallics or bold, non-traditional colors. Patterns like stripes, polka dots, and plaid can add some fun to your tree. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing different ribbons to create a layered, textured look that’s uniquely yours.
Know Your Measurements
When selecting ribbons, getting the right width and length is key to achieving the look you want:
- Ribbon Width: The width of your ribbon can dramatically change the appearance of your tree. Wider ribbons (2.5 to 4 inches) are great for making bold statements and creating large, eye-catching bows. Narrower ribbons (1 to 2 inches) work well for subtle accents, layering, or delicate touches.
- Ribbon Length: The length of ribbon you’ll need depends on the size of your tree and the decorating technique you choose. For general guidance, use about 10-15 yards of ribbon for every foot of tree height. If you’re wrapping the ribbon horizontally or cascading it vertically, you might need more to cover the tree fully.
- Amount of Ribbon: To ensure you have enough ribbon, consider buying more than you think you’ll need. It’s better to have a bit extra than to run out midway through your decorating.
Ribbon Decorating Techniques
If you’re searching for tips on how to put ribbon on a Christmas tree, the ideas below provide step-by-step instructions to help you achieve a stunning look.
Wrapping Horizontally for Classic Charm
Horizontal wrapping is a timeless technique that creates a cohesive and elegant look. Here’s how to do it.
- Start at the Top: Begin by anchoring one end of the ribbon at the top of your tree. You can tuck the end into the branches or secure it with a small ornament hook.
- Wrap Around the Tree: Slowly work your way down the tree, wrapping the ribbon in a spiral. Keep the ribbon slightly loose so it doesn’t pull too tight against the branches. Aim for even spacing between each wrap—about 8-12 inches, depending on your tree’s size.
- Adjust as You Go: As you move down the tree, step back occasionally to check the ribbon’s spacing and adjust if necessary. If the ribbon looks too tight or bunched, gently pull it out and reposition it.
- Secure the End: Once you reach the bottom of the tree, tuck the end of the ribbon into the branches or use another ornament hook to secure it.
- Final Touches: Fluff the ribbon by gently pulling sections out to create loops or billows. This adds volume and makes the ribbon stand out more on the tree.
Creating a Vertical Cascade
The vertical cascade is a striking technique that adds drama and elegance to your tree. Follow these steps:
- Cut Your Ribbon: Start by cutting your ribbon into several long pieces, each about 4-6 feet long, depending on your tree’s height and the desired effect.
- Anchor at the Top: Secure the top end of each ribbon piece at the tree’s crown. You can tie them to the top branch, secure them with a small ornament, or use a decorative tree topper to hide the ribbon ends.
- Let it Cascade: Allow each ribbon piece to flow vertically down the tree. Don’t worry about making them perfectly straight—letting them cascade naturally adds to the charm.
- Tuck and Arrange: As the ribbons cascade down, tuck sections into the tree branches at various points to create loops and waves. This helps to integrate the ribbon into the tree and adds dimension.
- Balance the Look: Distribute the ribbons evenly around the tree to maintain balance. Adjust the ribbons by loosening or tightening the loops if one side looks too heavy.
Adding a Spiraled Flair
The spiral design is a dynamic twist on the horizontal wrap that gives your tree a sense of movement. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Choose Your Ribbon Length: Cut a long piece of ribbon, ensuring it’s enough to spiral down from the top to the bottom of your tree. For a 7-8 foot tree, you might need 10-15 yards of ribbon.
- Start at the Top: Secure one end of the ribbon at the top of the tree. You can do this by tucking it into the branches or using a tree topper to hide the starting point.
- Spiral Down: Begin spiraling the ribbon down the tree in a corkscrew pattern. Unlike horizontal wrapping, the ribbon should have a more pronounced angle as it wraps around the tree.
- Maintain Consistency: Keep the spacing between each spiral consistent as you move downward. This might mean slightly adjusting the angle as you go to ensure a uniform look.
- Secure at the Bottom: When you reach the bottom, tuck the ribbon’s end into the branches or secure it with an ornament hook.
- Fluff and Adjust: To enhance the spiral effect, gently pull the ribbon away from the branches in some areas to create loops or billows. This makes the spiral more pronounced and adds visual interest.
Perfecting Bow Placement
Bows are the perfect accent to finish off your ribbon decorations. Here’s how to place them for maximum impact:
- Make Your Bows: If you’re making your own bows, cut a length of ribbon (about 3-4 feet for a large bow). Fold the ribbon back and forth to create loops, then secure the center with a wire or twist tie.
- Top Bow: For a classic tree topper, place a large bow at the top of the tree. You can either tie it around the top branch or attach it to a tree topper. Make sure the bow’s tails cascade down the tree for an elegant look.
- Scattered Bows: To add pops of color and texture, place smaller bows throughout the tree. Attach them directly to the branches using ornament hooks or floral wire. For a more noticeable effect, try placing them at the ends of branches.
- Balance the Bows: Distribute the bows evenly around the tree. If you’re using multiple types of bows (different colors, patterns, or sizes), make sure they’re balanced in a way that complements the overall design.
- Final Adjustments: Once all the bows are in place, step back and examine the entire tree. Make any final adjustments to the bows’ placement or fluff the loops to ensure everything looks just right.
Pro Tips for a Designer Look
Follow these tips when decorating with ribbon on a Christmas tree.
Fluff the Tree for Fullness
Before you dive into decorating, take some time to fluff your tree. Separating and adjusting the branches makes your tree look full and lush, giving you the perfect canvas for your ribbon and ornaments.
Lighting Your Tree Like a Pro
Lighting is key to a gorgeous tree. Start by wrapping the lights evenly around the tree, making sure to cover all the branches. Warm white lights are a classic choice, but if you want to add some extra holiday cheer, go for multicolored lights.
Match With Ornaments
When pairing ribbon with ornaments, it’s all about coordination. Match your ribbon’s color to your ornaments, or go for a bold contrast to make your tree pop. Keep your tree’s theme in mind—whether it’s traditional, modern, or rustic—when choosing your ornaments.
Create Layers & Depth
To give your tree that designer look, layer different types of ribbons. Alternate between wide and narrow ribbons to create depth, and tuck the ribbons into the branches for a more natural, sophisticated appearance.
Balance Ribbon With Other Décor
While ribbon is beautiful, it’s important to balance it with other decorations. Mix in ornaments, garlands, and lights to make sure every element shines without overwhelming the tree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the answers to common questions about decorating a Christmas tree with ribbon.
What Type of Ribbon Should I Use on a Christmas Tree?
The type of ribbon you choose depends on the look you’re going for. Satin ribbons offer a smooth, luxurious feel, velvet adds richness and warmth, burlap gives a rustic charm, and wired ribbons are perfect for shaping and holding their form. Choose based on your tree’s theme and the overall ambience you want to create.
Is Ribbon Still Popular on Christmas Trees?
Absolutely! Ribbon remains a popular and versatile choice for decorating Christmas trees. It’s favored for its ability to add texture, color, and a touch of elegance. Whether you prefer a classic look or something more modern, the ribbon is a timeless addition that enhances the overall design of your tree.
How Many Feet of Ribbon Do I Need to Wrap a Christmas Tree?
The amount of ribbon you need depends on the size of your tree and the technique you plan to use. For a standard 7-8 foot tree, you’ll typically need about 40-60 yards of ribbon, especially if you’re wrapping it around the tree multiple times or creating cascading effects. A good rule of thumb is to have about 10-15 yards of ribbon per foot of tree height.
Can I Mix Different Ribbon Styles on One Tree?
Yes, using multiple ribbon types on one tree can add variety and depth to your decoration. Try combining different textures like satin, velvet, and burlap, or mix various colors and patterns for a more dynamic and personalized look.
Is There a Ribbon Placement Technique That Works Best for Small Trees?
For small trees, it’s best to use thinner ribbons and focus on simple placement techniques. A vertical cascading method can work well, as it doesn’t overwhelm the tree’s size. You can also create small, delicate bows to add subtle accents without overpowering the tree.
What’s the Easiest Way to Keep Ribbons in Place?
The easiest way to keep ribbons in place is to tuck them securely into the branches as you go. You can also use ornament hooks, floral wire, or even twist ties to anchor the ribbon at key points. Wired ribbon is especially useful as it holds its shape better and stays put.
Decorating your Christmas tree with ribbon is a fun and creative way to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re mixing different ribbon styles or mastering new techniques, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the process, and let your tree be a beautiful reflection of your holiday spirit.
Find More Christmas Decorating Tips
Read these next for more Christmas decorating guides and tips.
Updated Nov 15, 2024