How to Make a Layered Paper Tree Centerpiece

Make a cheap and easy layered tree paper centerpiece.

Using paper and scissors or a paper cutter with a decorative edge, you can make a layered paper tree centerpiece. The tree, which resembles a pine tree, is made with colored construction paper cut into decorative diamond shapes and glued onto a lightweight cardboard base. Drape metallic cord around the tree and glue on sparkly beads to turn it into a holiday decoration. The project makes an inexpensive kids' craft.

Things You'll Need

• Poster board or lightweight cardboard About five pieces of green construction paper Scissors or paper cutter with a decorative edge Glue Tape Ruler

Instructions

1. Twist a 16-by-16-inch square of poster board or lightweight cardboard into a cone shape. Secure with tape. Cut off curves on the bottom to straighten and create a level base.

2. Cut 2-by-2-inch squares of construction paper with decorative-edge scissors or paper cutter.

3. Hold the square on an angle so that it has a diamond shape.

4. Place a dot of glue at the top tip and glue to the base of the tree. Continue gluing pieces all around, overlapping each piece about halfway.

5. Begin a second round above the first, staggering the placement of the diamonds so that one diamond is placed above and between two diamonds below it. Continue gluing rows of squares until you reach the peak.

Tips & Warnings

• Scissors with decorative edges are available at most craft stores, often for less than $2.