Get into the holiday spirit making these beautiful festive 3D Christmas trees. It’s a creative family project or a fantastic kids’ craft for a holiday party. Older children can easily complete the craft on their own, while younger ones will enjoy the experience with just a bit of help. It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together and add a personalized touch to your seasonal decor.
Simple craft materials you probably have on hand
- Paper or cardstock for template
- Recycled corrugated cardboard
- Marker
- Utility knife or X-acto knife
- Hot glue gun
- Craft Glue (not Elmers)
- Paint (tempera paint, or acrylic paint)
- Assorted buttons and decorative bits
Instructions (If prepping the trees for a party craft do steps 1-4 in advance)
- Make a template. First, create your template by drawing a simple Christmas tree shape on your paper or cardstock. Cut it out and either fold or cut it in half along the center line. You can make the trees whatever size you want.
- Trace the trees. Next, trace your template onto sturdy, corrugated cardboard (great way to recycle those Amazon boxes). You’ll want one full tree and two half trees for each 3D Christmas tree you make.
- Cut the tree shapes. Use the utility knife to cut out the cardboard tree shapes. (Adults only, of course. And if you’ve never heard of Electric Scissors, check them out – game changer!)
- Glue the trees together. Use a hot glue gun to glue the half trees to the center of each side of the full cardboard tree.
- Time to paint! Paint your new 3D cardboard trees green or any color you desire. Metalic paints look amazing!
- Add the bling! Decorate your tree! The paint will dry quickly, bring out your buttons, gems, glitter, pom poms or whatever craft materials you have. Glue on craft materials using hot glue gun or craft glue.
Tasha Compos is a 15-year art educator and owner of ARTLab Maui in Kihei where artists of all ages can learn, play, and create. artlabmaui.com
