Finding a perfect tree topper can be a challenge, and a few years ago I was at a complete loss as to what to put atop my Christmas tree. I liked the idea of a classic star but I could find nothing that worked for me. So I made my own three-dimensional star to adorn the top of my tree. Today I would like to show a little tutorial about how to make your own 3-D star. You can top your Christmas tree or even hang them to use as a pretty decoration.

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Supplies

• Heavy Weight Cardstock or other Heavy Paper
• Template (links below)
• Scissors
• String or raffia for hanging
• Tissue Paper
• Things to decorate your star ( spray paint, mod podge, stamps, glitter, scrapbook paper, etc)
• Hole Puncher or knife to make holes
• Paper Protector (optional – I use this to avoid finger smudges while working with layers and inks)
• Glue strips or Glue dots (no wet glue!)

Printable 3-D Star Templates

There are two templates you can use depending on your preference. This individual Arm 3-D Star Template is painting or decoration where each arm of the star must be decorated separately. This is what I used for my star as you can see each arm is stamped and the pattern does not extend to other arms. This Full Front 3-D star Template is easier to work with but you only have the option of decorating the whole side at one time. The templates include various sizes to choose from.

Instructions for Making a 3-D Star (with variations)

1. Cut out the templates and trace lightly with a pencil over whatever heavy weight paper you choose. You will need two full front patterns or 5 individual arms.

2. You may decorate as a flat surface if stamping. Paint has the possibility of cracking so I suggest you fold before spray painting or adding dimensional elements.

3. Fold both the center lines and tabs as directed.

4.  Add glue dots to all tabs. If using the individual arm template, shape the arm and stick the tabs to the appropriate side firmly so that each individual arm is shaped before assembling the full star.

5. If you are hanging, attach the ribbon inside the arms to come through the top opening. You can also punch two holes in the back to create a way for the star to tie to something such as a tree top.

5. Attach tabs to other pieces. Stuff the arms of either template with tissue paper to increase strength.

6. Finish any decorations or spray paint as necessary.

7. Spray with a paper stiffener or aerosol starch if desired.

My Decorations

On my star, I used the single arm template. Before folding, I layered two stamps as shown above: a script stamp and a flourish. I stamped the images and then rubbed a bit of the same ink around the edges to create a distressed look. I let that dry and then folded the individual arms.  Lastly, I used a dimensional product called Stickles, which is essentially a high quality glitter glue, and traced the flourishes in the red glitter. That dried for at least a few hours and then I attached the arms to each other.

Happy Holidays!!!

More Christmas Crafts and Projects

Christmas Mantle

Gift Tree Ornaments