How to Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree

Looking for an unusual way to ring in the holidays or simply don’t have any desire to go through the hassle of putting up a Christmas tree this year? Avoid the fuss and muss of tree trimming, while still not looking like a Grinch by creating a stand-up cardboard, light up Christmas tree.

Edit Steps

Evaluate your overall size and shape needs. For a small display, a two foot “tree” is perfect. You can make these trees any size you’ll like but take into consideration space and also practicality. If you have curious children and animals you may want to opt for a table top display instead of something on the ground.

Cut tree shape from cardboard. Using your straight edge and box cutter, create the desired tree design. You could go with something simple and geometrical, such as a simple triangle or you can add branches--it all depends on how intricate you want your tree.

Punch tree holes to make room for the lights. You will be pulling the light bulb portion from the strand through each hole so strategically create holes that are evenly scattered throughout the tree.

Push lights through each hole. Start at the top of the tree, using the strand end that does not have a plug (so when you finish your plug will be in a position where it can be connected to an outlet).
- Be sure you pull each light completely through so it holds snugly in each punched hole.

Create tree support. Measure approximately half of the tree height and the entire tree width to obtain your support measurements. Cut a “T” shape from another piece of cardboard, creating two 3” strips.
- Fold the bottom of the longer, height strip approximately ½” outward. Then fold down one side of the strip to create a support that will be glued against the tree itself.
- Hot glue the long fold to the middle of the tree back. Hold in place while the glue dries.
- Hot glue the bottom of the folded height strip to the width strip base and hold in place.