Looking for a simple mess-free holiday craft that kids will love? This Paper Strip Christmas Tree Craft is the perfect mix of fun and easy!
With a few supplies and my free printable template, your kids can create their own festive trees. This project is fantastic for Christmas craft time at home, school, or holiday parties. It’s also fantastic for a quiet time activity when you need a little calm. This paper craft is a wonderful way for kids to practice fine motor skills and creativity, too.
Keep reading to get your free printable template, helpful tips and ideas, and easy step-by-step instructions. I hope you enjoy this festive and stress-free holiday craft as much as my boys and I did!
A Simple Christmas Craft for Kids
Christmas has always been a big deal in our house. It’s hands-down our favorite holiday!
My boys and I love finding new ways to celebrate the season and crafts are a huge part of that. Over the years, we’ve made pretty much, like ornaments, garlands, and countdown chains.
One of our favorite traditions is decorating our homeschool area with homemade creations. There’s something extra special about seeing your kids’ artwork brightening up your home.
This Paper Strip Christmas Tree Craft became one of the best projects. It’s simple, colorful, and full of holiday cheer. Plus, its mess-free and perfect for quiet time.
What You’ll Need for This Christmas Tree Craft
You don’t need anything fancy to make this adorable Christmas tree craft. Gather these simple supplies that you probably already have around the house (or in your craft bin). Kids can mix and match paper colors to make each tree unique, too.
- free Christmas tree template (click here for instant download)
- Green construction paper (2–3 shades)
- Brown construction paper
- Different colors of construction paper (for ornaments)
- Yellow construction paper (for the star)
- Scissors
- Glue stick
- Hole punch
How to Make This Paper Strip Christmas Tree Craft
Once your supplies are ready, it’s time to create your very own paper strip Christmas tree. This activity is great for kids of all ages. Just follow along with the pictures below (or use the instructions) and watch your trees come to life!
Prepare Christmas tree template.
Print out the Christmas tree template. Cut out the tree shape from the template.
Prepare paper strips and glue on.
Cut strips of green construction paper in 2–3 different shades. Glue the strips across the tree template, alternating the colors as you go.
Trim, add trunk, and make paper circles.
Cut a small brown square from construction paper and glue it at the bottom for the tree trunk. Carefully cut around the tree template to trim off any extra paper strips. Use a hole punch to punch out small circles from colorful paper to make ornaments.
Make star and add ornaments.
Cut out a star shape from yellow construction paper. Glue the ornaments and a yellow star on top of the tree.
Tips and Creative Ideas
Want to make this craft extra special? Here are a few easy ways to add your own creative twist!
- Mix up the paper: Try using patterned scrapbook paper or glitter paper. Another fun idea is to use wrapping paper scraps for a festive touch.
- Add texture: Layer torn edges instead of straight strips for a more rustic, handmade look.
- Make it 3D: Gently curl the ends of each strip with a pencil to give your Christmas tree more dimension.
- Personalize it: Write your child’s name or a short holiday message. It makes a sweet keepsake that you’ll treasure for years.
These simple touches make this Christmas tree craft even more magical. I encourage you to chat with your kids for their ideas on making this Christmas activity their own.
FAQ About This Paper Strip Christmas Tree Activity
This Paper Strip Christmas Tree Craft is great for preschool through elementary ages. Little ones can practice cutting and gluing. Older kids can add creative details or patterns to make their trees unique.
Absolutely! You can use scrapbook paper, cardstock, wrapping paper scraps, or even colored printer paper. It’s a great way to use what you already have at home or in the classroom. Another cool idea is to use fabric scraps.
These trees look adorable on bulletin boards, windows, or refrigerator doors. You can also string them together to make a festive holiday garland or use them as homemade cards or gift tags.
Most kids finish in about 20–30 minutes, depending on their age and creativity. It’s an awesome activity for a short craft break or quiet time.
Create Holiday Magic with This Paper Strip Christmas Tree Craft
There’s just something special about slowing down and creating together during the holidays. This Paper Strip Christmas Tree Craft is a mess-free way to add some sparkle to your season and your walls.
Grab your free printable template (instant download) so you’ll be ready! Print, cut, glue, and enjoy a simple way to make Christmas extra magical with your kids.
