Has anyone noticed that the humble ribbon – once just a simple wrapping accessory – has become a holiday favourite for decorating of all kinds? Whether styling a tree or adding finishing touches to a festive vignette, ribbons are now doing a lot of the heavy lifting – and I’m totally there for it! Ribbons bring a lot of colour, texture, and charm without much effort. And I’ve been leaning into this in my own holiday decorating the past few years. From soft velvets and delicate silks to structured wired fabric, there’s a type to suit every decorating mood. If you’ve wanted to add something fresh to your holiday decorating without trying to reinvent the Christmas wheel, then take a peek at these 9 Creative Ways to Use Ribbon for Christmas Decorating.
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🎀 9 CREATIVE WAYS TO USE RIBBON FOR CHRISTMAS DECORATING
Every one of these ideas come straight from our home, so you know they are realistic and easy to do. Just click on the links to dig deeper into each look from past home tours and diys.
1. Christmas Tree
We’re all familiar with weaving in or spiraling a long ribbon around the tree, but why not try something a little different? Opt for tying lengths of ribbon to tree tips for a softer look.
(SHOP the brown chocolate ribbon above).
Mix in 2-3 colours for added interest or stick to just one ribbon that coordinates with the rest of your ornaments.
(SHOP similar satin ribbons)
If you’re going for a more delicate aesthetic, use thinner ribbon to achieve the look.
(SHOP the gold ribbon above)
(SHOP similar red velvet ribbon)
I’ve been doing this for a few years now and have yet to tire of it. It’s a lovely way to mimic the feeling of tinsel, without the mess.
2. Wreaths & Swag
(SHOP similar red velvet ribbon)
Give your wreaths and swag a little love by adding ribbon in all sorts of creative ways. For swags, whether you choose a wired ribbon or an elegant velvet ribbon, tying it along the top is always a great way to go.
- To DIY the swag above, see my Simple, Holiday Swag tutorial which uses a mix of fresh and faux materials.
(SHOP the brown chocolate ribbon above)
(SHOP similar wired polka dot ribbon)
- To make your own ‘wintery’ swag – like the one above – see my Simple Winter Swag DIY tutorial.
For wreaths, there are a lot more options. Attach ribbon along the bottom middle for a traditional finish, like the wreaths shown below.
(SHOP similar striped ribbons)
(SHOP the dark red velvet ribbon above)
(SHOP similar satin ribbons above)
- To make this elegant ring wreath, check out my tutorial: Oh-So-Pretty DIY Christmas Wreaths.
If you want to add a bit more charm or whimsy to your wreath, attach your ribbon off to the left or right side.
(SHOP the ribbon above)
- To get the look above, see How To Make a Basic Fresh Wreath).
For a timeless look, you can’t go wrong with a top-centred ribbon for a soft, effortless touch.
(SHOP the brown velvet ribbon above)
3. On a Garland
Garlands often look elegant with a ribbon attached at one or more spots. I often tie bows on one end or on both ends of a long garland, even along the middle, as these past holiday looks from our home show:
(SHOP similar red velvet ribbons)
But I also love the look of draping or woven ribbons flowing through the entire length of the garland. Whatever your preference, ribbons are an easy way to prettify a garland that’s been added to a mantel, banister, or entryway.
4. Attached to a Floor Lamp
Adding a ribbon to a floor lamp (or two) adds an unexpected sprinkle of holiday cheer. Whether you let it drape along the pole or tie it at the base of the ‘neck’ as I did here over some greenery, it’s an elegant way to add a Christmas touch to everyday objects.
(SHOP the brown velvet ribbon above)
5. On a Vase or Vessel
(SHOP similar red velvet ribbons)
A simple ribbon tied around a vase or vessel instantly makes any arrangement feel festive.
(SHOP similar red striped ribbons)
Use wired ribbon for structure or soft velvet ribbon for a cozy, luxe touch. It’s a perfect little hit of holiday decor for a side or coffee table, buffets or entryways.
6. On a Mini Tree
Last season, I decorated this mini tree in this thrifted basket with a thin length of velvet striped ribbon. I love how sweet it looked on our dining room table!
- See my Instagram reel to see how it all came together.
(SHOP similar red striped ribbons)
You can do the same on a small scale as part of a vignette or as the centerpiece on a table, buffet, or countertop.
7. On a Teapot
One year, I was looking for a way to add a festive touch to our kitchen counter and decided to add ribbon to this teapot. It was an easy way to add charm to this holiday kitchen vignette.
8. Tied to a Basket
(SHOP similar black striped ribbons and black satin ribbons)
Don’t overlook your baskets! A quick bow tied to a handle can make a storage piece (or gift basket) feel more seasonal – even if it’s more of a background player in your decor. It’s a simple way to add a festive touch in an empty spot without trying to do too much. Just choose a ribbon that complements your room’s colour palette for a cohesive look.
9. Still on the Spool (in a Vignette)
One of the easiest yet most creative ideas may be to display your ribbon still on the spool as part of a vignette. Add a few spools in a tray with other holiday accessories. You can add them to just about any spot where you have a small collection of accessories. One year, I even added them to a foyer display for a sprinkle of red in an otherwise neutral holiday palette.
Adding a spool of ribbon is a unique nod to the joy of crafting and the spirit of handmade holiday decor.
Other ways to add ribbon…
Once you begin to think outside the box, then every object begins to look like an opportunity for a ribbon moment (trust me!). Here are a handful of other ideas I’ve seen or wanted to try in my own Christmas decorating:
- Ties to Taper Candle Holders
- Attached to glass vase or candle jars (wrap and tie a bow)
- Tied to Scones
- Wrapped around a Stack of Books (like a present!)
- Tied to the Back of Dining Room Chairs
- Tied to A Framed Print on a Wall (like a gift)
- Added as a ribbon trim border to lampshades
Where I Shop for Ribbons
My go-to sources start locally at craft and discount stores like Michaels, Home Sense (Canada), and the Dollar Store, and when I can’t find what I need there, I invariably comb through Amazon for a wide range of Christmas ribbons.
🎀 WRAPPING UP
Who knew ribbon could do so much? With a little creativity, these 9 creative ways using ribbon for Christmas decorating can turn even the simplest decor into something festive and personal. This season, think beyond presents and gift wrap and let ribbon add a festive touch around your home.
Happy decorating,
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