Decorating your Christmas tree is one of the most enjoyable parts of preparing your home, and ribbon is an easy way to make your tree stand out. Whether you prefer a classic style, a modern look, or something more creative, ribbon adds softness, movement, and a touch of elegance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to decorate your Christmas tree with ribbon like a professional. From choosing the right ribbon to mastering simple styling techniques, you’ll find practical tips to help you create a beautiful centrepiece that feels thoughtfully styled and visually balanced.
Things To Consider
Compare Ribbon Materials
- Satin Ribbons: Smooth and glossy, satin ribbons add a refined, elegant finish to your tree.
- Velvet Ribbons: Velvet introduces a rich, plush texture that creates a warm and inviting look.
- Burlap Ribbons: Burlap works well for rustic or farmhouse-inspired styles, thanks to its natural, textured appearance.
- Wired Ribbons: Wired edges make shaping and positioning easier, allowing you to style the ribbon exactly how you want.
Choose Complementing Colours
When selecting colours, consider the overall theme of your Christmas décor. Classic combinations such as red, gold, and green are always popular, but you can also introduce metallic finishes or richer, unexpected colour pairings to create a more distinctive look.
Pick Patterns That Pop
Patterns such as stripes, polka dots, and plaid can add personality and visual interest to your tree. If you want to experiment, try layering different ribbon patterns to create a textured look that feels distinctive and thoughtfully styled.
Know Your Measurements
- Ribbon Width: Wider ribbons measuring around 6 to 10 centimetres are ideal for making a bold statement and creating large, eye-catching bows. Narrower ribbons measuring 2.5 to 5 centimetres work well for subtle accents, layering, or more delicate details.
- Ribbon Length: As a general guide, allow around 900 centimetres to 1.4 metres of ribbon for every 100 centimetres of tree height. If you plan to wrap the ribbon horizontally or cascade it vertically, you may need extra length to achieve full coverage.
- Amount of Ribbon: To avoid running short while decorating, it is best to purchase more ribbon than you think you will need. Having a little extra on hand makes it easier to adjust placement and refine your overall look.
Wrapping Horizontally
- Begin by anchoring one end of the ribbon at the top of the tree. Tuck the ribbon end into the branches or secure it using a small ornament hook.
- Slowly work your way down the tree, wrapping the ribbon in a gentle spiral. Keep the ribbon slightly loose so it does not pull tightly against the branches. Aim for even spacing between each wrap, around 20 to 30 centimetres, depending on the size and fullness of your tree.
- Step back occasionally to check the spacing and overall balance. If the ribbon appears too tight or bunched in one area, gently pull it out and reposition it for a smoother flow.
- Once you reach the base of the tree, tuck the ribbon end neatly into the branches or secure it with another ornament hook.
- Finish by fluffing the ribbon. Gently pull sections outward to create soft loops or billows, adding volume and helping the ribbon stand out across the tree.
Vertical Cascade
- Begin by cutting your ribbon into several long lengths, each measuring around 120 to 180 centimetres, depending on the height of your tree and the effect you want to achieve.
- Secure the top end of each ribbon piece at the crown of the tree. You can tie it to the top branch, fasten it with a small ornament, or conceal the ends beneath a decorative tree topper.
- Allow each ribbon length to fall vertically down the tree. There is no need to keep the lines perfectly straight, as a natural cascade adds softness and visual interest.
- As the ribbon flows downward, gently tuck sections into the branches at different points to form loops and waves. This helps blend the ribbon into the tree and adds depth and movement.
- Space the ribbons evenly around the tree to maintain balance. Step back and adjust as needed, loosening or tightening loops if one area feels heavier than the rest.
Spiral Flair
- Cut one long length of ribbon, making sure it is long enough to spiral from the top of the tree to the base. For a tree measuring around 210 to 245 centimetres tall, you may need approximately 900 centimetres to 1.37 metres of ribbon.
- Secure one end of the ribbon at the top of the tree by tucking it into the branches or concealing it beneath a tree topper.
- Begin spiralling the ribbon down the tree in a corkscrew style pattern. Unlike horizontal wrapping, this technique uses a more pronounced angle as the ribbon winds around the tree.
- Keep the spacing between each spiral consistent as you move downward. You may need to adjust the angle slightly as you go to maintain an even, balanced look.
- Once you reach the base of the tree, tuck the ribbon end into the branches or secure it with an ornament hook.
- To enhance the spiral effect, gently pull sections of the ribbon away from the branches to form soft loops or billows. This adds dimension and helps the spiral stand out across the tree.
Bow Placement
- If you are making your own bows, start by cutting a length of ribbon measuring around 90 to 120 centimetres for a large bow. Fold the ribbon back and forth to create even loops, then secure the centre with floral wire or a twist tie.
- For a classic finishing touch, position a large bow at the top of the tree. You can tie it around the top branch or attach it to a tree topper. Allow the bow tails to cascade gently down the tree to create an elegant, flowing look.
- To introduce colour and texture throughout the tree, place smaller bows among the branches. Attach them securely using ornament hooks or floral wire so they sit naturally within the foliage.
- Distribute the bows evenly around the tree to maintain balance. If you are using more than one bow style, space them thoughtfully so they complement the overall design.
- Once all the bows are in place, step back and view the tree from different angles. Make any final adjustments by repositioning the bows or fluffing the loops to ensure everything looks cohesive and well-styled.
Pro Tips for a Designer Look
Fluff for Fullness
Before you begin decorating, take time to fluff the branches of your tree. Gently separating and adjusting the foliage helps the tree appear full and lush, creating an ideal base for adding ribbon and ornaments.
Layer Lights First
Begin by wrapping the lights evenly around the tree, making sure all branches are well covered from top to bottom. Warm white lights are a timeless choice, but if you want to introduce extra personality, consider using multicoloured lights to add visual interest.
Match With Ornaments
Coordinate your ribbon colour with your ornaments for a cohesive look, or choose a contrasting shade to create visual impact. Keep your overall theme in mind, whether classic, modern, or rustic, when selecting ornaments so everything feels balanced and thoughtfully styled.
Create Layers and Depth
To achieve a designer-inspired look, layer different types of ribbon throughout your tree. Alternate between wider and narrower ribbons to add depth, and gently tuck sections into the branches for a more natural and refined finish.
Balance Textures
While ribbon adds softness and movement, it works best when balanced with other decorative elements. Mix in ornaments, garlands, and lights so each detail has space to shine, creating a layered look that feels considered rather than overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Put Ribbon or Ornaments on the Tree First?
Start by adding the ribbon before placing ornaments. This helps establish the overall flow and structure of the design, allowing the ribbon to sit naturally within the branches. Once the ribbon is in place, you can add ornaments to fill gaps and create visual balance.
How Do You Decorate a Tree With Ribbon Vertically?
Cut the ribbon into long lengths and secure one end near the top of the tree. Allow the ribbon to cascade downward in soft waves, gently tucking sections into the branches as you go. This technique creates a flowing, layered effect that adds movement and depth.
How Do You Decorate a Christmas Tree With Mesh Ribbon?
Begin at the top of the tree and gather sections of mesh ribbon to form soft loops as you work downward. Secure each section by tucking it into the branches or using floral wire. This method creates a full, textured look that adds volume and visual interest.
What Kind of Ribbon Is Best for Decorating a Tree?
Wired edge ribbon is ideal, as it holds its shape when looped or tucked into the branches. Satin, velvet, metallic, and burlap ribbons all work well, depending on your chosen theme. Using two complementary ribbon styles can add depth and a designer-inspired finish.
How Do You Decorate a Christmas Tree With Ribbon Step by Step?
- Start by fluffing the branches and selecting your ribbon.
- Secure one end of the ribbon near the top of the tree.
- Tuck and twist or cascade it through the branches to create a natural flow.
- Add a second ribbon for contrast if desired.
- Adjust spacing and volume, and finish by placing ornaments to complete the look.
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