This is an easy Christmas tree construction paper craft. There is no photocopying involved, so it’s easy to prep without a copy machine. Also, there is not any templates to download for this project. However, it is probably better suited for 1st grade and older. If you want an easier Christmas tree project, download our Free Christmas Tree Construction Paper Craft.
What You’ll Need
- 1 black 9″ x 12″ sheet for each student
- 3 strips of paper 1/2″ x 9″ in length in each of these colors (red, yellow, orange, green)
- 1 small 1″ x 1″ square brown paper
- Glue stick
- Scissors
Step 1 – Cut Paper Strips
Grab 9×12 inch construction paper in the following colors.
- Red
- Green
- yellow
- Orange
- Brown
Cut 1/2 x 9 inch strips. Students each need 3 strips of each color. Cut out a trunk about 1×1 inch in size.
Give each student one 9″ x 12″ sheet of black paper. This will be the background.
Step 2 – Trunk and Tree Base
Use the glue stick to paste on the brown trunk. Choose any color strip to use as the bottom of the tree. The bottom color will be placed horizontally as shown in the image below. Students can trim off a piece of the base strip.
Step 3 – Put it All Together (The Fun Part)
To build the Christmas tree, take the three strips of each color plus the two strips that match the base color of the tree.
Cut each color as follows:
- Strip 1 – Cut 1/4 off
- Strip 2 – Cut about 1/3 off
- Strip 3 – Cut 1/2
Layout the strips in an ABC alternating pattern at angles, beginning with the larger strips towards the bottom. Use the smaller strips towards the top of the tree. Save one small square of yellow for the tip of the tree to represent the star. The goal is to make a weaving pattern that roughly resembles a triangle.
This may sound a little confusing, but it’s easier than you may think, and it’s fun. Figure out a good pattern before beginning to glue the strips onto the black background. Don’t worry if you don’t use all the pieces.
The Completed Tree – All Done
One of the nice things about this project, is that every tree will look different. Student’s trees will not look exactly like the sample, but they will look great on a classroom wall. All the colors against the black background really pop.
Your students are sure to enjoy this construction paper strips Christmas tree project. You can find more construction paper art projects by browsing our Art Blog pages.