How to Put Ribbon on Your Christmas Tree — Step-by-Step Guide

Add texture, color, and movement to your tree this year. This guide covers several ribbon techniques — spiral, cascade, weave — plus how to make bows and finish like a pro.

Materials & Prep

• Ribbon: Wired recommended for shaping. Widths: 1.5"–4" depending on tree size.
• Tools: Scissors, floral wire or twist ties, zip ties (optional), piping or twig for anchor (optional).
• Optional: Ribbon spool clips or clothespins, measuring tape.
• Pro tip: Choose 2–3 complementary ribbon styles (one wide, one medium, one skinny) for a layered, professional look.

Prep the Tree

• Fluff branches carefully — work top to bottom so ribbon can sit between branches neatly.
• Decide on lights and major ornaments before ribbon; ribbon typically goes on after lights and before final ornament placement.
• Measure ribbon lengths roughly: spiral ~1.5–2× tree height per spool; cascade/loops allow large loops (2–4 ft each).

Ribbon Techniques (with steps)

1) Spiral (Classic, easy)

1. Start at the top: anchor ribbon near the top pole or secure with a small floral wire.
2. Let the ribbon flow down the tree in a soft spiral, tucking it into branches every 8–12 inches for depth.
3. Keep ribbon slightly angled so the pattern faces out. Trim and tuck the end at the bottom.

2) Cascade / Waterfall (Dramatic vertical drapes)

1. Make large loops (or long tails) and secure the center of each loop to a branch near the top of the section.
2. Create multi-level drops: cluster 3–5 drapes per section for fullness.
3. Vary lengths so drapes overlap naturally.

3) Weave / Weave-and-Loop (Textured, layered)

1. Feed ribbon through branches in an in-and-out motion to create a woven band around the tree.
2. Alternate with a narrower ribbon for contrast.
3. Secure patterns with floral wire every 12–18 inches.

4) Loops, Puffs & Ruffles (For fullness)

1. Create a loop, pinch in the middle, and secure with wire. Attach loops pointing outward for volume.
2. Cluster multiple loops in varying widths for “puffs.”
3. Use loops to accent spiral or cascade placements.

How to Make Simple Tree Bows

Quick Classic Bow

1. Make two big loops and cross them in the middle.
2. Wrap a short piece of wire or ribbon around the center and twist tight.
3. Fluff loops and trim tails at a diagonal. Attach by twisting wire around a branch.

Puff Bow (Fuller)

1. Layer multiple loops (3–5) and secure the center with floral wire.
2. Fan the loops out for a floral, full look.

Placement & Styling Tips

• Balance: Step back often — add ribbon to lighter areas to keep symmetry.
• Depth: Tuck some ribbon deeper and let some sit on the surface for a 3D effect.
• Scale: Wider ribbon for large trees; narrower for small trees.
• Contrast: Mix matte and metallic ribbons; patterns with solids.
• Secure: Wired ribbon stays put; use floral wire discreetly for non-wired ribbon.

Quick Checklist

• Lights ✔︎
• Anchor points (top/center) ready ✔︎
• Ribbon measured and cut ✔︎
• Bows made and set aside ✔︎

Troubleshooting & Final Touches

If ribbon slips or droops, tighten with floral wire or tuck into denser branches. For a polished finish, add a few statement ornaments near major loops or bows for visual anchor.

Designer tip: Keep at least one ribbon pattern running continuously (such as the spiral) to create a cohesive, curated look.

Want printable instructions? Copy this page into a document and print. Happy decorating — and Merry Christmas!

Ribbon Guide — Estimated read: 3–5 minutes