Make a star tree topper or other décor with this 3-D star template. Perfect for Christmas, kids crafts, or 4th of July, this project is easy to personalize and change the size.
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.
3-D Star Template Supplies
- Heavy Weight Cardstock or other Heavy Paper
- Template (links below)
- Scissors
- String or raffia for hanging
- Tissue Paper
- Things to decorate your star with ( spray paint, mod podge, stamps, glitter, scrapbook paper, etc)
- Hole Puncher or knife to make holes (this one is my favorite and doesn’t hurt your hands)
- Paper Protector (optional – I use this to avoid finger smudges while working with layers and inks)
- Glue strips or Glue dots (don’t use 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.
How To Make A 3-D Star (with variations)
Step 1 – Cut out the templates and trace lightly with a pencil over heavy weight paper. You will need two full front patterns or 5 individual arms.
Step 2 – Decorate template. Paint has the possibility of cracking so I suggest you fold before spray painting or adding dimensional elements.
Step 3 – Fold both the center lines and tabs as directed.
Step 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.
Step 5 – Attach tabs to other pieces. Stuff the arms with tissue paper to increase strength.
Step 7 – Spray with a paper stiffener or aerosol starch if desired.
DIY Christmas Tree Star Topper Project
On my star, I used the single arm template.
To create a Christmas tree star topper, 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.
To hang the star, attach 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.
This completed 3D star looks radiant upon a tree or a series makes a beautiful garland.
Happy Holidays!!!
DOWNLOAD THE INDIVIDUAL ARM TEMPLATE HERE (PICTURED)
DOWNLOAD THE FULL FRONT 3D STAR TEMPLATE HERE
Check out a few more easy DIY Christmas craft ideas here:
- HANDMADE ORNAMENT EXCHANGE
- CHRISTMAS TREE WITH GIFT BOXES
- MERRY AND BRIGHT CHRISTMAS SIGN
- STENCILED TEA TOWELS
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More Christmas Crafts and Projects
Printable Holiday Gift Tags 
Merry and Bright Christmas Sign 
Cheap Christmas Decor Ideas
Audra @ Renewed Projects says
love love love this! Thank you for the template.
Rachel says
Thanks, Audra! I’m sure that you will make something beautiful with it.
Heidi Fowler says
It’s beautiful. Thanks, Rachel. I plan to make a star every year, but I never quite get to it. Pinned.
Rachel says
Thanks for the pin, Heidi! I have lot of projects that I haven’t got to yet so I know that feeling.
Kimberly says
Beautiful! Pinned and tweeted. Lou Lou Girls
Lorelai @ Life With Lorelai says
Congrats! Your Star Tree Topper Template is a Featured Post at the #HomeMatters Linky Party #18! Have a wonderful weekend. 🙂
Ginger says
It turned out BEAUTIFULLY! Pinning so I’ll “remember” how to do this later. Thanks for linking to Show Me Saturday.
Leslie says
This is gorgeous! I’m so making one of these for next year! I’m stopping by from Lou Lou’s, I hope your having a great day!
Rachel says
I love lou lou’s party. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and thanks for stopping by!
crystal says
This is so beautiful! I’d love it if you shared it on the Saturday showcase at Bowdabrablog.com
Crystal
Rachel says
Definitely hopping over, Crystal. Thanks for stopping by!
Lorelai @ Life With Lorelai says
Very pretty! Looking at the picture I didn’t realize it was paper. The things you can do with good old paper and some rubber stamps! 🙂 Fun project. Pinned.
~Lorelai @ Life With Lorelai
#HomeMatters
Rachel says
Thanks for the pin! I love working with paper and you are right that it can be more versatile than people think, lol.
Sarah J says
Popping over from Teach Me Tuesday =) Your star is beautiful! I bet they’d make great garland too. Be sure to share your crafts & DIYs at Two Uses Tuesday over at Sarah Celebrates if you don’t already!
Rachel says
Thanks for stopping by, Sarah! I will definitely hop over to share it and join the party.
Jess says
This looks like so much fun! We need a new tree topper anyways!
Thanks for joining the Link Up this week!
Bonnie @ Our Secondhand house says
This doesn’t look at all like a paper craft to me. Wow. When I first saw the photo I assumed it was made of metal. It’s beautiful! Thanks for linking up at the #HomeMatters Linky!
~Bonnie
Rachel says
Thanks so much, Bonnie! Even though it is made of paper, it has actually held up really well for the last 3 years. Thanks for visiting!
Bismah says
Wonderful and very creative idea! The outcome is so beautiful!
Rachel says
Thank you so much! I am thrilled with the star and very happy it has held up for the last few years.
Robin @ Redo It Yourself Inspirations says
That is truly beautiful, Rachel! Great tutorial too! Pinned and shared on Facebook this morning 🙂
Rachel says
Thank you so much, Robin!