Are you looking for a fun and easy DIY project to get into the holiday spirit? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to decorate a paper mache Christmas tree using beautiful doilies, paint, and Mod Podge. It’s a fantastic way to add a touch of charm to your holiday decor. Plus, it’s so simple that even beginners can join in on the crafting fun!
Gather These Supplies
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s gather all the supplies you’ll need for this project:
- Paper Mache Tree with Base – You can find these at your local crafting store. We recommend checking out Quill And Fox’s selection (hyperlinked to
https://quillandfox.com
). - Paper doilies – Opt for fancy doilies that you can easily find at a dollar store or party supply store.
- FolkArt Acrylic Paint – Choose colors like Bright Green, Holly Leaf, Kelly Green, Titanium White, and Yellow Citron to add a pop of vibrancy to your tree.
- Mod Podge Gloss – This will help secure the doilies to your tree.
- Felt in two shades of green – You can use small scraps for this.
- Peppermint striped scrapbook paper – A strip of this will cover the base of your tree, adding a festive touch.
- Sparkle pom pom for the top – This will be the crowning glory of your tree!
- Red buttons – About 12 of them.
- Craft knife and mat or scissors – To help with trimming and cutting.
- Craft glue – To attach the embellishments to your tree.
- Paintbrush – For painting the tree.
Once you have all your supplies ready, we can start crafting!
Let’s Get Started!
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Begin by painting the cone-shaped paper mache tree with Kelly Green acrylic paint. This base color is essential to prevent the paper mache from showing through the doilies. Allow the paint to dry completely.
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Take your paper doilies and paint some of them with the other shades of green, such as Holly Leaf and Bright Green. Apply several coats for a more vibrant look and let them dry thoroughly.
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For an extra touch of whimsy, add some Yellow Citron doilies to your tree. This color complements the other shades of green beautifully and gives a Cindy-lou-who vibe.
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Now it’s time to attach the doilies to the tree. Apply a medium layer of Mod Podge to the tree’s surface and carefully smooth each doily onto it. Work with one doily at a time, making sure to eliminate any wrinkles. Allow each layer to dry for a few minutes before adding the next one.
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After all the doilies are in place, leave the project to dry for 15-20 minutes. Then, give the entire doily tree a coat of Mod Podge. Let it dry and repeat the process for a second coat. Once the tree is completely dry, trim any doilies that overlap the base of the tree.
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To add some festive embellishments, draw holly leaves on the back of the green felt using the “double-cross” method. Cut them out and glue them, along with the red buttons and a sparkle pom pom, to the tree using craft glue. Give the glue time to dry.
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Now, let’s focus on the base of the tree. Paint it with Titanium White. To make it even more delightful, cut a strip of peppermint-striped scrapbook paper and use Mod Podge to secure it to the base. Voila! Your tree is complete.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a charming paper mache Christmas tree ready to brighten up your holiday decorations. It’s the perfect project to bring a touch of Whoville magic into your home.
Remember, after you’ve decorated your first paper mache tree, there are endless possibilities for future creations. You can make a winter-themed tree or even a spooky Halloween version next year. Let your imagination run wild!
If you enjoyed this project, be sure to check out other exciting DIY ideas from Quill And Fox, such as Hot Chocolate Christmas Ornaments, a Vintage-Style Christmas Tree Centerpiece, a Beautiful DIY Christmas Village, Chalkboard Christmas Trees for Your Holiday Mantel, and Yarn Wrapped Christmas Tree Decor.
Happy crafting and happy holidays!
Image Source: Original Article