How to decorate a Christmas tree with ribbon. A simple and foolproof way to add ribbon to your Christmas tree.
Over the years of sharing my Christmas trees, the number one question I get is how to put ribbon on a Christmas tree. Below I’ll walk you through a step-by-step method for decorating with ribbon, plus helpful tips to make the ribbon look natural and integrated with your tree.
I prefer ribbon to appear nestled into the branches rather than simply wrapped around the outside where it looks tight and sits on top of the foliage. The goal is a soft, organic look where the ribbon flows with the tree instead of constricting it.
If you’d like tree inspiration, consider these favorite styles for different looks and color palettes.
- A Flocked Christmas Tree with Plaid Ribbon
- Plaid Christmas Tree
- A Buffalo Check Flocked Christmas Tree
- Flocked Buffalo Check Christmas Tree
- A Glam and Pink Pencil Christmas Tree
Choosing a ribbon
If you’re new to decorating with ribbon, buy a few different rolls and test them on the tree before committing. Unspool a length and drape it on the branches to see how the color and width read in your space and against your tree’s foliage.
Testing also helps you decide which width looks best; proportions change with tree size and ornament scale.
Do you put ribbon on a Christmas tree first or last?
After you fluff and shape the branches, add ribbon before you hang ornaments. Ribbon establishes tiers and movement on the tree and is easiest to position without ornaments in the way.
What type of ribbon do you put on a Christmas tree?
Wired fabric ribbon is ideal because the wire edge helps the ribbon hold shape when tucked and shaped within the branches. For most trees, choose ribbon between 2.5 and 3.5 inches wide; larger trees can handle wider ribbon.
How much ribbon do I need for a Christmas tree?
Quantity depends on the tree’s height and fullness. For a typical 6–7 foot artificial tree, I use two 25-foot rolls and buy a third spare roll just in case. Extra ribbon can be used on a mantel, wreaths, or garlands to coordinate with the tree.
Adding ribbon to a Christmas tree
Begin at the top. Tuck the ribbon’s starting end behind a branch at the back of the tree; if it won’t stay put or small hands might tug, secure it with a bobby pin. Work the ribbon down the tree at a slight diagonal rather than wrapping it straight around. Diagonal tiers guide the eye and add visual interest.
Don’t let the ribbon rest only on the surface of the branches. Nestle and weave the ribbon into the foliage so it feels integrated and has movement. This keeps the ribbon from appearing stiff or overly tight.
How to add another roll of ribbon
When one roll runs out, tuck the end discreetly into the back of the tree and secure with a bobby pin if needed. Start the new roll at the same spot, tucking or pinning its starting end into the branches, and continue wrapping. Try to make the transitions hidden behind branches so the join isn’t visible from the front.
When finished you can cut the ribbon and tuck the end into the tree or, if you use a tree collar, hide the remaining spool inside the collar for a clean look.
How to decorate a Christmas tree with ribbon.
- Always use wired ribbon, about 2.5–4 inches wide.
- Start at the top of the tree and work the ribbon down clockwise or counterclockwise, whichever feels natural for your space.
- Use bobby pins to keep the ribbon secure where needed.
- Angle the ribbon so it descends diagonally rather than wrapping in straight rings.
- Nestle the ribbon into the branches — don’t pull it tight around the tree.
- When starting a new roll, begin at the back to hide the join.
- Consider adding beaded garland between ribbon tiers for extra texture.
Adding beaded garland to your Christmas tree
Adding beaded or felt garland between the tiers of ribbon increases texture and depth. Wooden beads bring a warm, tactile element that complements fabric ribbon and ornaments. Layering different textures builds interest and helps the overall design feel cohesive.
I often thread a wooden beaded garland in between each ribbon tier to create contrast and dimension; it’s an easy way to elevate the finished look.
Once the ribbon and garland are in place, finish by arranging your ornaments. The ribbon provides structure and flow, making it easier to place ornaments so the tree reads balanced and styled.
