If you have some extra toilet paper or paper towel rolls lying around, why not use them to create a beautiful Christmas tree? In this post, we’ll explore a step-by-step technique for making a charming Christmas tree using recycled materials. With just a few basic supplies and a little creativity, you can make a tree that will not only be a standout addition to your holiday decor, but will also help reduce waste.
Necessary Materials
Before starting the project, gather all the necessary materials. You will need 17 cardboard tubes (toilet paper rolls), newspaper, white glue, tape, pencil or pen, scissors, spatula and modeling paste. For painting, have a paintbrush, white matte acrylic paint and light green and dark green gouache tempera paints available. In addition, use Styrofoam trays to organize the paints. You will also need dimensional paints in various colors, Christmas images printed or cut out of wrapping paper, card stock or cardboard, and unused book covers can be a good alternative. Finally, have paper glue on hand, a special glue ideal for finishing the project with precision and durability.
Preparing the Tree Structure of paper rolls
- Preparing the Tube Bases Start by preparing the cardboard tubes. Using masking tape, trace circles on pieces of newspaper and cut them out. These circles will be used to create a solid base for the tubes. Apply white glue to the bases of the tubes and glue the newspaper circles on. To reinforce, apply a layer of masking tape over the circles to ensure they stay in place.
- Tree Assembly Using white glue, start assembling the structure of the Christmas tree. Glue the tubes side by side, forming a pyramid. Reinforce the structure with tape to ensure that the tubes are firm and secure. The pyramid shape is ideal for simulating the classic shape of a Christmas tree.
Preparing and Painting the Frame from the tree with paper rolls
- Applying Modeling Paste Prepare a mixture of modeling paste and white glue. Use a spatula to mix three tablespoons of modeling paste with two tablespoons of white glue. Apply this mixture to the entire base of the tree to create an even layer. Let it dry for about 24 hours.
- Tree Painting After drying, apply a coat of white matte acrylic paint to create an even base. Once the white paint is dry, apply a coat of dark green gouache tempera paint. Let dry for about three hours.
- Creating Patina Effect To add a patina effect, apply light green gouache tempera paint with the brush held horizontally. This will give the tree a textured, realistic look.
Tree Decoration with paper rolls
Adding Stars Use a Styrofoam tray to draw and cut out several stars. Glue these stars to the end of each tube using white glue. The stars will add a special touch to the top of the tree.
Final Decorations and Details Cut out holiday images and glue them to cardstock using Multcolage. This will help waterproof the images and bring out the colors. Decorate the images with dimensional paints in various colors to add bright, festive details.
Finishing the Decoration
Your recycled Christmas tree is now ready to decorate your home! This sustainable approach not only saves money and resources, but also allows you to add a personal touch to your holiday decor. Display your creation with pride and share the idea with friends and family, encouraging them to adopt similar practices.
By reusing items that would normally be thrown away, you’re helping to reduce waste and create a more sustainable environment. Turning toilet paper rolls into a Christmas tree is a fun and eco-friendly way to celebrate the holiday season.
For more ideas on recyclable crafts and sustainable Christmas decorations, keep exploring our blog. Don’t forget to share your creations and inspire others to do the same!
Sources of Inspiration
- Google Search
- Examples of sustainable decoration
With this technique, you can create a unique and charming Christmas tree, while helping to protect the environment. May your Christmas be filled with joy, creativity and environmental responsibility!
Learn how to make other arts by recycling, Click here.
Check out interesting facts about recycling clicking here.
