Classic Christmas tree toppers include stars and angels, but possibilities are endless!
Christmas is totally my favorite time of year to decorate our home! I love to pull out all of the boxes of Christmas decorations and figure out how to set them up each year. I also love investing in a few new pieces every year.
In previous years, I’ve used everything from the traditional angel to a glittery star for my tree topper, but I knew there had to be some other ideas out there. So, I started researching DIY tree toppers for something with a bit more personality. I found some really beautiful options that anyone can make from home!
Out of all the holiday decor, the Christmas tree topper always seems to be the most challenging. First of all, it’s hard enough to reach the top of the tree. But, sometimes you want to switch up your style or do something a little unexpected.
In my research, I found a little bit of everything from a simple star to some really unique toppers. Continue reading to see everything from unique to classic Christmas tree topper ideas all made at home.
Choosing the Right Tree Topper for Your Tree
There are a few things to keep in mind when you are choosing your tree and tree topper.
Consider Your Theme
Before choosing a topper, consider the overall theme or style of your Christmas decor. Whether you’re going for a traditional, rustic, farmhouse, modern, boho, or whimsical look, your topper should complement the rest of your decorations.
Height of the Tree
This may sound obvious, but make sure there’s a bit of clearance between the topper and your ceiling. Don’t forget to account for any extra height the tree stand may add. Leaving about six inches of space between the topper and ceiling is a good rule of thumb.
Weight of the Topper
Much like with height, you don’t want your topper to overpower the tree. If the topper is too heavy for the tree, it may fall over or pull on the top portion of the Christmas tree. Lighter tree toppers made from paper, fabric, or plastic are ideal. Zip ties are also a handy tool to secure the topper.
Symbolic Significance
Decide if you want your topper to have any symbolic significance. The star and angel are classic choices with religious meaning, while other symbols like snowflakes or bells can add a festive touch without religious connotations. Or, use a cherished topper from a family heirloom.
Material and Texture
Consider the materials and textures used in your topper. Traditional materials like metal, glass, or fabric can lend elegance, while natural elements like wood, feathers, or pine cones can add rustic charm. Choose materials that complement the overall look and feel of your tree.
Personalized Touch
Add a personal touch to your tree by choosing a topper that reflects your interests, hobbies, or family traditions. Monogram letters, themed characters, or DIY creations can make your tree truly unique and meaningful.
Durability and Stability
Ensure that your chosen topper is sturdy and stable enough to sit securely atop your tree. Lightweight toppers may be prone to tipping over, especially on taller trees or if there’s a lot of movement nearby.
Tree Topper Decor Styles
- Rustic Charm: For a cozy and rustic vibe, top your tree with a natural-inspired topper such as a burlap bow, pinecone cluster, or miniature wooden star.
- Glittering Glamour: Add a touch of opulence to your tree with a glamorous topper adorned with glitter, jewels, and metallic accents. Choose from ornate finials, bejeweled crowns, or dazzling crystal spheres to make a statement atop your tree.
- Nature’s Bounty: Embrace the beauty of the great outdoors with a nature-inspired topper. Consider adorning your tree with a majestic owl, a graceful deer antler, or a rustic twig star for a touch of woodland charm.
- Vintage Vibes: Transport your tree back in time with a vintage-inspired topper, reminiscent of Christmases past. Look for retro-inspired designs such as mercury glass finials, tinsel angels, or nostalgic tin ornaments to add old-world charm to your tree.
- Cultural Celebrations: Celebrate your heritage or explore new traditions with a culturally-inspired tree topper. Choose from religious or cultural symbols to reflect your family’s unique heritage.
- Make it Boho: You know I love the boho aesthetic! Mix together natural, earthy colors and textures to bring this style to life. Check out our boho Christmas tree for some inspiration!
What’s the most popular tree topper?
The most popular Christmas tree topper varies depending on cultural traditions, personal preferences, and current trends. However, historically, the star and the angel have been two of the most popular choices for Christmas tree toppers.
- Star: The traditional star is a classic and symbolic choice for many people. It represents the Star of Bethlehem, which according to the Bible, guided the wise men to the birthplace of Jesus. The star atop the tree is often seen as a reminder of the religious significance of Christmas.
- Angel: Angels are another traditional and meaningful choice for tree toppers. Angels are commonly associated with the Christmas story, as they are said to have announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. An angel tree topper is a symbol of peace, hope, and the presence of heavenly beings during the holiday season.
While the star and angel remain popular choices, other options such as bows, ribbons, snowflakes, and various themed decorations have gained popularity in recent years as well.
The Best Christmas Tree Toppers
How To Make A Christmas Tree Star with Yarn and Cardboard
Learn how to make a Christmas tree star on a budget with yarn and cardboard! Elevate your holiday decor with our step-by-step guide!
DIY Tree Topper from Dollar Tree Items!
Want an easy and cheap DIY tree topper?? Grab a Dollar Tree star and wrap some twine around it. You’ve got yourself a rustic Christmas tree topper!
How to Make an Easy DIY Christmas Tree Star
Learn how to make a beautiful (and super cheap) DIY Christmas tree star using this step-by-step tutorial and free printable template.
DIY Wooden Starburst Tree Topper
Learn how to make a DIY Wooden Starburst Tree Topper for your Christmas tree this year. It has a very Scandinavian holiday feel and definitely gives your tree that wow factor!
Sign for Tree Topper
Love this festive Christmas tree with a "joy to the world" sign used as a tree topper.
Jumbo Fabric Wrapped DIY Candy Cane as Tree Topper
This tutorial will show you how to make and embellish jumbo wood candy canes that are wrapped with red ticking fabric for a cute Christmas decoration. They work perfectly as a tree topper!
DIY Driftwood Angel Tree Topper
One of the biggest traditions of Christmas is the tree topper. Here’s how to make a DIY driftwood angel tree topper to enjoy all season!
$3 Farmhouse Snowflake Tree Topper
An easy tutorial to make an inexpensive Christmas tree topper with farmhouse style. This project only costs $3 to make!
Felt Dove Tree Topper
This felt dove tree topper perches perfectly on a Christmas tree with its little felt cone.
DIY Flock of Birds Christmas Tree Topper
Want to add a fun and colorful animal-inspired topper to your Christmas tree? Here’s how to make a simple DIY Flock of Birds Christmas Tree Topper!
DIY Driftwood Tree Topper
If you live in a coastal area, there’s always driftwood to be found. Here’s how you can make a DIY driftwood tree topper for your Christmas tree!
How to Make a Paper Star Ornament and Star Tree Topper
Grab some colorful cardstock and make a paper star tree topper! This craft can be used for any style of tree and they are so fun to make! Read on for all the details.
DIY Christmas Tree Angel
How to make an angel for your Christmas tree with upcycled materials using a small scrap of fabric from a wedding dress.
Glitter Paper Star Tree Topper
Love this glitter paper star tree topper! It adds so much glam to the top of your Christmas tree.
DIY Tree Topper with Picks
Learn a simple way to use picks to create a beautiful DIY tree topper, giving your Christmas tree an elevated, professional look for the holiday season!
Other Decorative Tree Topper Ideas
Here are some creative Christmas tree topper ideas:
- Snowflake: Add a touch of winter magic with a sparkling snowflake.
- Ribbon Bow: A simple yet elegant option, especially if you have a themed ribbon.
- Santa Hat: Give your tree a whimsical touch with a miniature Santa hat.
- DIY Paper Star: Get crafty and create your own unique star out of paper or cardboard.
- Floral Arrangement: Decorate the top of your tree with a beautiful bouquet of artificial flowers.
- Monogram Letter: Personalize your tree with the first letter of your family name.
- Nutcracker: Add a festive touch with a miniature nutcracker figurine.
- Vintage Finial: Hunt for a vintage finial or ornament to crown your tree with old-world charm.
- Seasonal Hats: Adorn the top of the tree with a Santa Hat, Crown, or festive winter top hat.
These ideas can be adapted to match your themed tree and personal style.
Safety Tips for Anchoring Christmas Tree Toppers
Follow these safety precautions when securing your tree topper:
- Use a stable ladder to reach the top of the tree. Better yet, have a friend or family member steady the tree.
- Consider the weight of the topper before attaching it. We don’t want anything to break or fall!
- Use zip ties or ribbon to secure the adornment to the top of the tree.
- Always check for broken or burnt-out bulbs before plugging in your topper.
The Christmas tree stands as the centerpiece of holiday décor, its branches adorned with twinkling lights and cherished ornaments. But what truly crowns this festive symbol? The Christmas tree topper! As you prepare to deck the halls, consider these unique topper designs to elevate your tree.
