Just as a topper completes the top of your Christmas tree, a tree skirt can add a finishing touch to the other end.
This tutorial describes how to make a burlap Christmas tree skirt.
But you don’t need to use burlap or burlap ribbon. You can use whatever suitable fabric and ribbon you have in one color or a mix of colors, depending on your Christmas décor.
What I particularly love about this tree skirt is the pleats. The effect is a puffy cloud look that looks much harder to produce than it actually is.
This project fits anybody who is good with scissors and glue. A hot glue gun would make it easier, but it’s not necessary.
Have a look and see what you think.
You’ll Need
- Felt
- Burlap, different colors and types
- Burlap ribbon
- Marker
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- String or twine
Step-By-Step Instructions
The Base
- Mark the center of the felt with a dot.
- Place a pin in the dot.
- Wrap string around the pin.
- Measure 18 inches from the center and cut the thread to that length.
- Hold the pin in the center and with your other hand, hold the marker and the outer end of the string. Move the string and the marker together in a circle. The resulting circle should be about 3 feet wide.
- Repeat the process, but measure 3 inches. This will be the center hole. The resulting circle should be about 6 inches wide. If you think your tree needs a bigger center hole, make adjust the measurement.
- Mark a line from the outer circle to the inner circle.
- Cut out the large circle.
- Cut down the line and around the small circle.
Gluing The Burlap
- Cut 8-inch strips of burlap in a selection of colors.
- Fold one of the strips and, placing the folded side on the outside, glue its edge to the edge of one of the outer sides of the felt. Leave an inch overhanging within the circle.
- Create the ruffles by gathering the burlap in 1-inch sections, then glue it down.
- Repeat for the rest of the burlap strip.
- When you need to add another strip, overlap with the end of the old piece and glue it down. Ensure the fold is on the outside.
- Continue making pleats.
- At the end of the circle, cut off the excess of the current strip, leaving 1 inch extra.
- Fold the excess 1-inch over and glue it onto the other side of the felt.
- Glue down the center of each pleat to make them lie flat.
- Repeat the process with a different color burlap, ensuring it overlaps the layer next to it for a pretty effect.
- It’s a better effect if the pleats are layers on the outer layers and gradually get smaller as you reach the middle.
- Trim any burlap strands.
- Glue down around the outside of the smaller circle to ensure it doesn’t fray.
Adding The Ribbon
- Cut 6 x 2-foot sections of ribbon.
- If using burlap ribbon, cut the burlap strands off the edges.
- Glue a ribbon to each side of the top, middle, and bottom of the center circle openings.
- Tie in loose knots or bows.
Place the tree skirt around your tree with the opening at the back.