Christmas Decor
I can’t say that there has ever been a Christmas tree in which I haven’t found sincere beauty. From the simplest to the most intricate of decor, every tree is unique and lovely because of the love that goes into decorating it.
I’ve always enjoyed decorating our Christmas trees, ever since I was little. I enjoy creating a beautiful centerpiece of the home for the holiday season, and I also like it to be different each year. Here’s what I don’t like: Buying all new ornaments each year to go with a theme. Buying a new faux tree to keep on style. Buying, buying, buying, spending, spending, spending. I’ve invested in the ornaments that I currently own, and have done so as I’ve collected over the years. I like my tree toppers, my picks, and my tree skirts. So, how do you mix things up while spending little money?
The answer to that question is using ribbon as part of your decor. Using ribbon to decorate your tree is neither something I’ve come up with, nor is it a new trend.
The History of Ribbon
The history of ribbon is interesting. Today, around the holidays, ribbon is the epitome of festive. Adorning wreaths and mailboxes, light posts and gifts, wherever you are looking to add a little extra “festive,” add some ribbon. However, for centuries, ribbon was made only available to the most noble of society, as it was in short supply and expensive. In the Middle Ages, ribbon became more available due to merchant ships importing silks from foreign places. But, ribbon was not widely available until the 1800s, and at that point, it was mainly used for fashion. In the early 1900s, it became popular to use on gifts, wreaths, and Christmas trees.
New Look For Less
Ribbon has been a staple in holiday decor for a while, and for good reason. I have also found that by incorporating a different ribbon into my decor each year, I can give my tree an entirely new look without changing much of anything else. This means that besides replacing items that have seen better days (broken ornaments, half-lit lights, etc.), the cost of a couple rolls of ribbon is the most expensive part of updating my Christmas decor. (And if I find a good sale at Michaels or Amazon, it often is less than $30 for all of it!)
Ways to Use Ribbon
I am definitely not a ribbon decorating expert. But there are tons of how-to’s online that are easy to follow and super helpful for us beginners! I’ve turned to tutorials to show me how to add ribbon to my tree; how to make pretty, full bows; and how to wrap my gifts with a little extra delicate touch.
This is the third year I’ve used ribbon on our Christmas tree, and I have to say, it sure does add a little something to the mix. But what I love about it most of all is how it can be customized to anyone’s preferences: simple or flashy, muted or bold. It can be swirled, tucked, flowing, wrapped. You can add a little, or tuck in as much as will fit. And no matter what, it’s beautiful because you created it with time and love. If you don’t believe me, just ask your cat.
I’ve enjoyed adding this new layer to my Christmas decor, as it gives my decor a different spin each year. My decor feels renewed, yet is still the same meaningful decor that I have come to love and adore.
