Rustic Burlap Christmas Tree
Rows of ruffled burlap give this tabletop tree its soft, layered look. It's built on a simple poster-board cone, so you can make it any height you like.
Published · 1 min read
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Crafting time
- 1 hour
- Estimated cost
- $10–$15
Table of contents
Planning your tree
A 12-inch (30 cm) cone needs roughly 3 yards of 4-inch-wide burlap ribbon. Work from the bottom up so each new row overlaps the one below.
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Materials and supplies
Tick items off as you gather them.
tools you'll need
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
- Pencil and string (to draw the cone)
let's make it!
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Make the cone
Roll poster board into a cone 12 inches tall, tape the seam, and trim the bottom so it stands flat. Or use a ready-made foam cone.
Step 2: Start the first ruffle
Glue the end of the burlap at the bottom edge of the cone. Pinch a small fold every inch as you glue the ribbon around the base to create ruffles.
Step 3: Work upward in rows
When you reach the start, move up about 1½ inches and continue around, overlapping the row below. Keep pinching folds as you go.
Step 4: Finish the top
Narrow the ruffles as the cone tapers. Wrap the last piece tightly around the tip and glue it down.
Step 5: Add the topper
Glue a small star or snowflake to the tip. Fluff the ruffles with your fingers.
pro tips!
Helpful craft tips
- Pinching tighter folds gives fuller ruffles.
- Make three trees in different heights for a mantel display.
Variations to try
- Tuck a string of battery fairy lights between the rows.
- Alternate burlap with lace ribbon for a two-tone tree.
Safety tips
Use battery LED lights only; never place burlap decorations near candles or heaters.
Frequently asked questions
How much burlap do I need?
About 3 yards of 4-inch ribbon for a 12-inch tree. Taller trees need proportionally more.
Keep crafting
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