How to Put Ribbon on a Christmas Tree: 5 Easy Methods
Ribbon is one of the easiest ways to make a Christmas tree look finished. Whether you’re styling a display tree for a shop window, dressing a tree for a client’s event or decorating your own tree at home, the right Christmas ribbon for Christmas tree styling adds colour, movement and a polished, professional look.
In this guide, we share five easy methods for putting ribbon on a Christmas tree, along with tips for choosing the right Christmas tree ribbon for an Aussie summer Christmas. At Floral Craft, we stock a wide range of wholesale ribbon for florists, retailers and stylists, so you can find the look that suits your tree.
Key Takeaways
- Wired Christmas ribbon is the easiest to work with because it holds loops, twists and bows in place.
- Put the ribbon on after the lights and before the baubles and ornaments.
- Cascading drops, spiral wraps, bows, tucked loops and topper streamers are five simple methods that suit any tree.
- Choose two or three ribbons in coordinating colours and widths for a layered, designer look.
- Measure your tree before you buy so you have enough ribbon to finish the job.
Choosing the Right Christmas Ribbon for Your Tree
Before you start, it pays to choose a ribbon that suits your tree, your colour scheme and the method you plan to use. The ribbon you pick will make a big difference to how easy the tree is to style and how well it holds its shape over the festive season.
Why Wired Ribbon Works Best
Wired-edge ribbon has a fine wire running along each side, so you can bend, scrunch and shape it and it stays put. That makes it ideal for loops, waves and bows. The table below compares some of the options in our range.
Christmas Ribbon Comparison
| Ribbon type | Width | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Double Face Satin (wired edge) | 50mm | Cascading drops and spiral wraps |
| Metallic Christmas Tree Ribbon (wired edge) | 38mm | Spiral wraps and streamers |
| Diamond Design Woven Metallic (wired edge) | 38mm | Textured spirals that catch the light |
| Stripe Mesh (wired edge) | 38mm | Lightweight streamers and tucked loops |
| Red Satin with Gold Metallic Wired Edge | 25mm | Neat, crisp bows |
| Velvet Ribbon | 63mm | Statement bows and a luxury finish |
| Grosgrain with Metallic Christmas Print | 25mm | Bows, streamers and tying ornaments |
Picking Widths and Colours
Wider ribbons (38mm to 63mm) make a bold statement on larger trees and suit cascading drops. Narrower ribbons (10mm to 25mm) are perfect for bows, tying ornaments and smaller tabletop trees. For a cohesive look, choose a main ribbon and one or two accent ribbons in coordinating colours, such as red and gold, silver and white, or a natural, rustic palette.
Browse our full range of Christmas ribbon to compare colours, finishes and widths.
Ribbon Tips for an Aussie Summer Christmas
Christmas in Australia brings long, bright days, so think about where your tree will sit. Trees in sunny shop windows or near glass doors get plenty of light, and wired ribbon helps loops and bows keep their shape through the season. Metallic and mesh ribbons are a great choice for summer trees as they reflect light and add a fresh, festive sparkle.
Before You Start: Prepare Your Tree
A little preparation makes ribbon much easier to apply and gives a neater finish.
- Shape the branches: Fluff and spread each branch of your Christmas tree so there are plenty of gaps to tuck ribbon into.
- Add the lights first: Lights should always go on before ribbon so the ribbon can sit over and around them.
- Measure the tree: Measure the height and widest point of your tree, then work out how many lengths or wraps you need for your chosen method. Allow extra for loops, tails and bows.
- Have your tools ready: Sharp scissors, florist wire or pipe cleaners, and a few spare ties will help you secure ribbon quickly.
5 Easy Ways to Put Ribbon on a Christmas Tree
Each of these methods works with most Christmas tree ribbon styles. You can use one on its own or combine two for a layered look.
1Cascading Vertical Drops
Best for: Tall trees, modern styling and shop window displays.
This is a popular, modern look that’s simple to achieve. Start at the top of the tree and let lengths of ribbon fall towards the base.
- Cut lengths slightly longer than the height of your tree.
- Secure the top of each length under the topper or to a top branch with florist wire.
- Work down the tree, tucking the ribbon into the branches every 20 to 30cm to create soft waves.
- Space four to six drops evenly around the tree.
Wide wired satin ribbon is ideal here because it holds each wave in place.
2Classic Spiral Wrap
Best for: Classic looks and slim or full trees.
A spiral wrap gives a traditional, elegant finish and suits both full and slim trees.
- Secure one end of the ribbon near the top of the tree.
- Wrap the ribbon loosely around the tree on a gentle diagonal, working down towards the base.
- Tuck the ribbon into the branches as you go so it sits slightly inside the tree rather than on top.
- Secure the end at the back of the tree with wire.
For a richer look, spiral two ribbons side by side, such as a metallic and a satin in coordinating colours.
3Ribbon Bows on the Branches
Best for: Traditional, coordinated trees and smaller tabletop trees.
Bows are a timeless way to add colour and are perfect if you want a classic, coordinated tree.
- Make bows of the same size so the tree looks balanced.
- Attach each bow with a short length of florist wire twisted around a branch.
- Place bows in a loose diamond pattern around the tree, filling gaps between baubles.
- Add a larger statement bow at the top as an alternative to a traditional topper.
Narrower ribbons such as the Red Satin Ribbon with Gold Metallic Wired Edge make neat, crisp bows, while a velvet ribbon adds a touch of luxury.
4Tucked Ribbon Loops
Best for: Full, lush trees and filling gaps between branches.
Tucking creates a full, “puffed” look, as if the ribbon is weaving in and out of the tree.
- Start at the top and tuck the end of the ribbon deep into the branches.
- Pull out a loop of ribbon about 15 to 20cm along, then tuck it back in.
- Repeat around and down the tree, keeping the loops a similar size.
- Pinch and shape each loop so it stands out from the branches.
This method uses a little more ribbon, so allow extra length when you measure.
5Ribbon Streamers from the Tree Topper
Best for: Quick styling and drawing attention to the tree topper.
Streamers are quick to add and draw the eye to the top of the tree.
- Cut several lengths of ribbon in different colours or widths.
- Gather them at the top and secure under the topper or a large bow.
- Let the ribbons fall down the tree and tuck the ends into lower branches.
- Trim the ends at an angle or into a “V” for a neat finish.
Mixing textures, such as satin with a mesh ribbon and a printed Christmas grosgrain, makes streamers stand out.
Finishing Touches for a Professional Look
Once your ribbon is in place, a few final details pull the whole tree together.
Layering with Baubles and Picks
Add Christmas baubles after the ribbon, placing some inside the tree for depth and some at the tips for sparkle. Christmas picks tucked beside the ribbon help fill gaps and add texture.
Tips for Retail and Event Trees
For shop and event trees, consistency is key. Using the same ribbon on your display tree, wreaths and gift wrapping creates a coordinated look across your space. You’ll find more display ideas in our guide to Christmas tree decorations Australia.
Shop Christmas Ribbon at Floral Craft
Ready to style your tree? Floral Craft stocks a wide range of Christmas ribbon, from wired satin and metallic ribbons to mesh, velvet and printed designs.
Explore Our Christmas Range
Pair your ribbon with our Christmas tree decorations, garlands and wreaths to create a complete festive look, or browse the full Christmas collection.
Wholesale Supply Australia Wide
As a trade wholesaler based in Norwood, South Australia, we supply florists, retailers and event stylists with Christmas ribbon and decorations, delivered Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing, or contact our team for help choosing the right ribbon for your trees and displays.
FAQ
What is the best ribbon for a Christmas tree?
Wired-edge ribbon is the best choice for most trees because it holds loops, waves and bows in place. Satin, metallic and mesh wired ribbons all work well. Explore our Christmas ribbon range to compare options.
Should ribbon go on a Christmas tree before or after the lights?
Always put the lights on first, then add ribbon, then finish with baubles, ornaments and picks. This keeps the ribbon visible and makes it easier to adjust.
How much ribbon do I need for my Christmas tree?
It depends on the size of your tree and the method you choose. Measure the height and width of the tree, work out how many drops or wraps you want, and allow extra for loops and bows. Tucked loops use more ribbon than cascading drops.
How do I keep ribbon in place on a Christmas tree?
Tuck the ribbon into the branches as you go and secure it at key points with florist wire or pipe cleaners. Wired ribbon also helps the ribbon keep its shape.
What width of ribbon is best for a Christmas tree?
Wider ribbons of 38mm and above suit larger trees and cascading or spiral styles. Narrower ribbons of 10mm to 25mm are ideal for bows, small trees and tying ornaments.
Can I mix different ribbons on one tree?
Yes. Combining two or three ribbons in coordinating colours and textures, such as satin, metallic and mesh, creates a layered, designer look.
Where can I buy wholesale Christmas ribbon in Australia?
Floral Craft supplies wholesale Christmas ribbon to florists, retailers and event stylists, with delivery Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing.