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
Compare Ribbon Materials
- 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 Complementing Colors
When it comes to colors, 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.
Pick Patterns That Pop
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
- Ribbon Width: 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: 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.
Wrapping Horizontally
- Begin by anchoring one end of the ribbon at the top of your tree. Tuck the end into the branches or secure it with a small ornament hook.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Vertical Cascade
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Spiral Flair
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- When you reach the bottom, tuck the ribbon’s end into the branches or secure it with an ornament hook.
- 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.
Bow Placement
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Distribute the bows evenly around the tree. If you’re using multiple types of bows, make sure they’re balanced in a way that complements the overall design.
- 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
Fluff 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.
Layer Lights First
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
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 Textures
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
Do You Put Ribbon or Balls First on a Tree?
Always start with the ribbon before adding ornaments. This helps you establish the flow and structure of your design, ensuring the ribbon sits naturally among the branches. Once the ribbon is placed, you can add ornaments to fill in gaps and enhance balance.
How Do You Decorate a Tree With Ribbon Vertically?
Cut the ribbon into long strips and tuck one end near the top of the tree. Let it cascade downward in soft waves, gently tucking sections into the branches as you go. This creates a natural, waterfall-like effect that adds movement and dimension.
How Do You Decorate a Christmas Tree With Mesh Ribbon?
Start at the top and gather sections of the mesh to create soft poufs as you work your way down. Secure each section with floral wire or by tucking it into the branches. The result is a full, textured look that adds volume and sparkle to your tree.
What Kind of Ribbon To Decorate a Tree?
Choose wired-edge ribbon, as it holds its shape beautifully when looped or tucked. Satin, velvet, metallic, and burlap ribbons are all excellent options depending on your theme. Combining two complementary ribbon styles adds depth and a designer touch.
How Do You Decorate a Christmas Tree With a Ribbon Step-by-Step?
- Fluff the tree and choose your ribbon rolls.
- Start near the top, securing one end of the ribbon to a branch.
- Tuck, twist, or cascade the ribbon in sections for a natural flow.
- Layer in a second ribbon for contrast.
- Adjust spacing and volume, then add ornaments to complete the look.
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