How to Decorate a Christmas Tree with Ribbon
No Christmas tree is truly complete without ribbon! With a variety of ribbon styles and techniques available, you can easily customize your tree to reflect your personal Christmas style. We’ve compiled some of our favorite ideas to inspire you.
We also spoke with seasonal decorator Lisa Barth, who shared her expert tips on using ribbons and bows. Her top advice? “Invest in high-quality wired ribbon and store it properly! Layer different textures and patterns for added depth,” Barth recommends.
If you’re not feeling crafty or find ribbon intimidating, don’t worry! “Ribbon is simply fabric,” Barth explains. “Don’t be afraid to experiment. If it doesn’t look perfect, just keep practicing.”
Weaving Ribbon
This tree by @bowsbybarth demonstrates that you can never have too much ribbon! Especially when the ribbon is as stunning as these gold and white styles.
Barth shares her technique: “I create a few loops and use the branches to secure them. Then, I work my way down the tree, allowing the ribbon to flow naturally. I look for the next connection point to secure the ribbon again, making it appear as though the ribbon is weaving in and out of the tree.”
Velvet Bows
In recent years, velvet bows have become a popular choice for Christmas trees, garlands, and wreaths. This tree from @paolaa.lifedecor showcases a beautifully casual yet elegant approach. By using narrow velvet ribbon, about 1 inch wide, you can tie bows directly onto the branches. Let the loops and tails drape down loosely for the perfect effect.
Wide Satin
To achieve this look inspired by @those.green.windows, use extra-wide ribbon or fabric. The white satin cascades down the tree, tucked into the branches for a voluminous effect. Start by installing the ribbon, then fill in any gaps with ornaments and floral picks. The result is a lush, fluffy tree that looks stunning even when it’s not illuminated!
Frayed-Edge Chiffon
Frayed-edge silk chiffon ribbon adds a delicate touch to your tree. Featured on this tree by @mwhitenerdesigns, the gray-blue ribbon is semi-transparent, allowing the tree lights to shine through. The bow tails are left extra long, creating a lovely contrast with the shorter, thicker white bows. Gold wooden beads and simple black-and-white glass ball ornaments complete the look.
Layered Ribbon
Take a look at the two-layer ribbon technique on this tree by @hold_my_eggnog. A black-and-white gingham ribbon is layered over a wide burlap ribbon, adding depth and pattern. This dual-ribbon approach gives the decoration more substance, ensuring it stands out among the ornaments and other tree decor.
Multicolor Bows
This stunning tree from @whilefloriansleeps is adorned with multicolored bows and filled with ornaments, tinsel, and glowing lights and candles, embodying a maximalist style that perfectly complements the eclectic, jewel-toned room. Keep in mind that your Christmas decor should harmonize with your everyday style—here, the “more-is-more” approach is absolutely breathtaking.
