DIY Windows Christmas Tree: Easy Projects & MaterialsThe windowsill Christmas tree is a charming, space-saving way to bring holiday spirit into your home. Whether you live in a studio apartment, want to add festive curb appeal, or need a kid-friendly project, window-based trees offer endless creative possibilities. This article covers easy projects, materials, step‑by‑step instructions, lighting, safety tips, and ways to personalize your window display.
Why choose a windows Christmas tree?
A windows Christmas tree:
- Saves space — perfect for small homes and apartments.
- Adds curb appeal — visible from the street and invites holiday cheer.
- Is versatile — works with real branches, paper, fabric, or lights.
- Is child- and pet-friendly — many designs avoid heavy ornaments and sharp hooks.
Project 1 — Simple string-light tree (no tree required)
Materials:
- String lights (LED recommended)
- Small adhesive hooks or removable Command strips
- A lightweight ribbon or star topper (optional)
- Tape measure
Steps:
- Measure the window height to plan your tree’s size.
- Affix a hook at the top center of the window frame for the string lights’ top point.
- Drape the lights in a triangular/tree shape, securing the sides with hooks or strips.
- Add a ribbon or small topper at the top.
Tips: Use a plug-in timer to control lights. LEDs stay cool and are energy efficient.
Project 2 — Paper pennant/tree garland
Materials:
- Colored cardstock or decorative paper
- Scissors or craft knife
- Twine or thin ribbon
- Glue or double-sided tape
- Hole punch (optional)
Steps:
- Cut paper into triangles (sizes can vary for a layered look).
- Decorate triangles with stamps, glitter, or markers if desired.
- Attach triangles to twine using glue, tape, or by punching holes and threading.
- Hang the garland in a tree shape inside the window, anchoring the top point higher.
Tip: For a 3D effect, fold each triangle slightly on the centerline.
Project 3 — Felt or fabric window tree (reusable, soft)
Materials:
- Felt sheets in green and other colors
- Fabric glue or sewing kit
- Scissors
- Small velcro dots or adhesive for hanging
- Optional: pom-poms, buttons, sequins for ornaments
Steps:
- Cut a large triangle from green felt for the tree base, or cut multiple tiers.
- Attach ornaments to the felt using glue or by sewing small buttons/pom-poms.
- Fix velcro or adhesive strips to the back and attach to the window glass or frame.
- Top with a felt star.
Benefits: Soft, kid-safe, reusable year after year.
Project 4 — Washi-tape outline tree (minimalist & removable)
Materials:
- Washi tape in green and accent colors
- Paper star or sticker for topper
Steps:
- Clean the window surface.
- Use washi tape to form a triangle outline and then create internal branches or geometric shapes.
- Add a star sticker at the top.
Tip: Washi tape is removable and won’t damage paint or glass.
Project 5 — Branch and ornament display (natural look)
Materials:
- A few small evergreen branches or gathered twigs
- A small vase, jar, or wall-mounted pocket
- Lightweight ornaments or paper baubles
- Fishing line or thin ribbon
- Optional: fairy lights
Steps:
- Arrange branches in the vase and set on the windowsill or suspend a horizontal twig across the window with fishing line.
- Hang lightweight ornaments from the branches or the suspended twig.
- Weave a strand of fairy lights through the branches for evening glow.
Caveat: If using real branches indoors, monitor for drying and fire safety; LEDs are recommended.
Materials overview and where to buy
Common materials and recommended types:
- Lights: LED string lights (cool, energy-efficient).
- Fasteners: Removable adhesive hooks/Command strips (damage-free).
- Paper: Cardstock or scrapbook paper for durability.
- Fabric: Felt for easy cutting and no-fray edges.
- Tape: Washi tape for temporary designs.
Where to buy: Craft stores (Michaels, Hobby Lobby), big-box retailers (Walmart, Target), and online marketplaces (Amazon, Etsy).
Lighting and electrical safety
- Prefer LEDs: they run cool and use less power.
- Avoid overloading outlets; use a power strip with surge protection.
- Keep cords organized and away from water and walkways.
- If using real greenery, place lights so they don’t touch dry needles and unplug when unattended.
Child- and pet-friendly adaptations
- Use soft ornaments (felt, pom-poms) and avoid glass or small choking hazards.
- Secure any hanging elements with strong adhesives or tie-downs to prevent pulling.
- Consider adhesive-backed felt trees for low risk and reusability.
Personalization ideas
- Theme by color (scandi white, vintage red/green, pastel).
- Display family photos as ornaments for a sentimental touch.
- Use local materials—dried citrus slices, cinnamon sticks—for a natural scent.
- Add an advent element: small numbered envelopes or pockets on the tree holding treats or notes.
Quick troubleshooting
- Lights sagging: add extra hooks or lightweight clips.
- Tape not sticking: clean the glass with rubbing alcohol first.
- Wind drafts moving decorations: add weights (small washers or coins) hidden at the bottom of fabric/paper pieces.
Storage and reuse
- Store paper and felt pieces flat in a labeled envelope or box.
- Wrap string lights around a spool or piece of cardboard to prevent tangling.
- Keep small ornaments in a compartmentalized container to avoid damage.
Final notes
A windows Christmas tree can be as simple or elaborate as you like—no full-sized tree required to create warmth and holiday cheer. The projects above range from five-minute setups to craft sessions you can enjoy with friends or family.
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