Putting ribbon on a Christmas tree is a sophisticated way to give it a designer look. They’re elegant whether wound around the branches or cascading from the top. In this article, we share expert tips and styling techniques for adding decorative ribbons to your Christmas tree.
3 Ways to Decorate Your Christmas Trees With Ribbons Like a Professional
Watch Jennifer Lutz to see how to put ribbon on a Christmas tree in three different ways or follow the step-by-step guide below.
Decorating With the Wrap and Tuck Ribbon Style
For a classic look, try the wrap-and-tuck technique. It adds a simple yet elegant touch to full or narrow trees.
Starting at the top, loop your ribbon around the Christmas tree in a downward spiral. Tuck the ribbon deep into the branches.
Keep your ribbon in place using floral wires or pipe cleaners. You can also use wired branches that you can bend to hold ribbons in place.
Decorating With Vertical Cascading Ribbons
Achieve a waterfall look with this unique decorating style. Here’s how to put a ribbon on a Christmas tree vertically.
- Using a wired ribbon, shape large billows from the treetop. Tuck and secure the ribbon to the interior branches as you move down the length of the tree.
- Trim the ends of your Christmas tree ribbon into a fishtail shape. You can also shape the ends into rolls for a polished look.
Decorating With a Ribbon Ornament Style
For this technique, you can mix different types of ribbons to create visual interest. Use pieces with contrasting colours and materials for a striking look.
- Use two or more non-wired ribbons with different designs or colours. Cut them into strips with varying lengths for a layered effect.
- Tie ribbons around the top of each ornament for texture and consistency throughout your tree.
Things to Remember When Decorating a Tree With Ribbons
Learning how to add ribbon to a Christmas tree isn’t as complicated as you’d think. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
- Fluff your tree before decorating – Shape your tree until you achieve the desired fullness. Start at the back of each branch and move toward the front, bending tips up and out. Read our step-by-step guide for more details.
- Use the right kind of ribbon – Wired ribbons retain their shape, so you can twist and bend them into loops, bows, or other styles. Non-wired ribbons are ideal if you're planning to tie knots or weave the strands into small branches.
- Check your work – Every now and then, take a step back to make sure that the ribbons are well-spaced and fluffed. Then, adjust as needed.
Insider's Tip
Layer Christmas tree ribbons with different textures and colors to create depth. For a more dramatic effect, use wide ribbons on trees measuring 210 cm or taller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keep reading to learn more on how to decorate a Christmas tree with a ribbon:
What Is the Easiest Way to Put a Ribbon on a Christmas Tree?
The easiest ribbon decorating style is the wrap and tuck. Take a long strand of a ribbon and start at the top of the tree. Then, wrap your tree in a downward spiral, tucking the ribbon in the branches. Secure the end of the ribbon with floral wires or pipe cleaners.
Should You Put Ribbon on Your Christmas Tree First or Last?
We recommend putting the ribbons first especially if you need to anchor them deep into the branches. Ornaments should go last to avoid bumping and breaking them as you decorate. If using Christmas lights, make sure to string them first before adding your ribbons.
What Size Ribbon Is Best for Christmas Trees?
We recommend using ribbons that are 5–12 cm wide, but you can layer two ribbons with different widths for visual interest. For the length, use at least three metres of ribbon per 30 cm of tree.
We hope this guide gave you some ideas on how to use Christmas tree ribbons. Browse Balsam Hill's website to shop ribbons and Christmas decorations.
Learn More About Christmas Decorating
Read the articles below for more decorating guides: