There are many types of trees you can build with paper. You can make Christmas trees, or even life size wall trees! Regardless of what you want to do, wikiHow can help you. Start from the first point below or take a look at the sections listed under the title to find the tree you prefer.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Building a Traditional Tree
Step 1. Create two tree trunks
On some cardboard, draw two trunks with branches and cut them out. You may need the help of an adult, as cardboard is sometimes very resistant and difficult to cut.
Make sure the trunk is wider at the bottom, as if there are roots going into the ground. This will help the tree stand up
Step 2. Cut a row in the center
Cut a row in one of the trunks from the top (where the branches begin) down to the middle of the trunk. Then, on the second trunk, cut a similar line running from the center to the bottom.
Step 3. Insert one trunk into the other
Now you can slide one of the logs into the other! The tree cut from the bottom should be in the one cut from the top. Now the tree can stand up!
Step 4. Create the leaves
Using squares of colored sheets, apply a little glue to the center of the paper and attach it to one of the tree branches. Continue until you think the tree is complete. You can make it very thick too!
Step 5. Decorate and enjoy
Once all the leaves have been added, you can make the tree even more special by adding other decorations. Try drawing and cutting a squirrel to keep your tree company, or build a nest from a pipe cleaner.
Method 2 of 5: Building a Wall Tree
Step 1. Build the trunk
Using crumpled brown paper bags, attach the bags to a wall (with scotch tape) in the shape of a tree. You can make it as big or as small as you want! You may need the help of an adult if you want to make a very large tree. Have an adult use a ladder to get to the highest branches.
Step 2. Make the leaves
Now, the leaves of the tree. You can trace the outline of your hand on cardboard and then cut it out. Think about what colors would be suitable for showing the current season. What color are the leaves in autumn? And in the spring? Make lots of leaves for the tree!
Step 3. Add the leaves to the tree
Attach the leaves to the branches or on the wall next to the branches. Ask an adult for help to reach the higher parts.
Step 4. Add more decorations
You can also add other things to the tree! Try cutting out birds and squirrels to put on the tree, or flowers that grow underneath.
Method 3 of 5: Build a Christmas Tree
Step 1. Build the base cone
Take some green packaging cardboard, roll it up and fix it in a narrow cone and the height you want for your Christmas tree.
Step 2. Cut out strips for the branches
Cut long strips of green cardboard about 5-7 cm wide. Make very close cuts along the bottom, leaving about 3-4 cm at the top to create the fringes of the branches.
Step 3. Add the branches
Starting from the bottom and going upwards, attach the strips around the tree, with the fringes facing downwards.
Step 4. Fluff the branches
Once you have added all the strips, fluff up the fringes (especially on the bottom) to make the tree seem thicker.
Step 5. Decorate your tree
You can use glitter, beads, pompoms, pipe cleaners and any other material to decorate the tree. Don't forget the tip!
Method 4 of 5: Building a Palm
Step 1. Get some newspapers
It takes about 4-8 pages.
Step 2. Roll up the paper
Start around a pencil, then remove it after making a few turns.
Step 3. Add a sheet
When you are about 6 cm from the edge, add another sheet over the previous one and continue rolling until there is about 6 cm left again. Don't over tighten - you'll understand why later.
Step 4. Repeat
Repeat the third step until all pages are rolled up.
Step 5. Cut the tube
Make 4 vertical cuts at one end of the tube, about 15 cm (you can do this with scissors or by tearing).
Step 6. Pull the ends up
Holding the tube with your left hand, gently use your right to pull the center point of the cut part upwards. Stop when you reach the desired height. The paper tree will begin to grow up to 20-22 cm.
Step 7. Color the leaves if you like
You can use green spray paint to color the tree if you wish.
Step 8. Create a log
Wrap some brown paper around the base of the tree and attach or glue it in place.
Step 9. Done
Once completed, you can continue to augment the base with crumpled newspapers and paint them brown, to create a sturdier tree (like a pineapple).
Method 5 of 5: Build a Real Tree
Step 1. Get some winter branches
About 4-7 clean branches (ie without leaves) about 5-10 cm long are needed.
Step 2. Color the branches
Paint the branches in silver, gold, red or any color you wish. Spray paint might be easier, but ask an adult to help you out if that's the case.
Step 3. Get a large pot or vase
It must be sturdy enough to support the branches you found.
Step 4. Tie a knot around the vase
Take some colored string or a nice bow and tie it around the opening of the bowl to make it more festive.
Step 5. Fill the pot
Fill the pot or jar with river stones or gravel. In this way it will be stable and will hold the branches.
Step 6. Add the branches
Place the branches in the pot, fixing them in the gravel or stones you placed on the bottom.
Step 7. Decorate your tree
You can add handmade ornaments, paper leaves, card stock or wish cards for the branches!
Advice
- If the center is not removable, the cylinder is tied too tightly.
- For a better effect, say some magic formula before growing the tree.
Warnings
- Keep the tree away from the fire, as the newspapers will catch fire immediately.
- Be sure to use rounded-tipped scissors when working with small children.
