trim the tree – paper stars

I’ve created a few new paper Christmas tree decorations this year and just now these cute and easy stars are my favorite!

These are 12-point stars, but it’s just as easy to make 10-point and 8-point stars.    To draw a 12-point star from scratch, start with a 6-point star (two triangles), then layer another 6-point star over the top at a 45-degree angle.

Step 1 – cut the star from cardboard (cereal box cardboard)

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Step 2 – glue plain brown paper to the printed side of the star.  Grocery sacks are perfect.

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Step 3 – Trim the paper around the star edges then apply the paint color of your choice to both sides.

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Step 4 – Punch a small hole in each point.

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Step 5 – cut a 72″ length of hemp, heavy embroidery thread or crochet thread and pull the strand halfway through the top hole (12 o’clock position).   Collect the bottom half of the strand in a bundle for now and begin working with the top half of the strand.  Thread it downward through the hole at the 5 o’clock point, then up through the 10 o’clock point.

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Step 6- Pull the string tight after each stitch and continue moving around the star at 5-point intervals.  When you return through the 12 o’clock point you’re half finished.

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Step 7 – Repeat the process using the other half of the strand.  Start by threading the end up through the 5 o’clock point, down at the 10 o’clock point and so on until you return to 12 o’clock.  Then knot the two ends at the 12 o’clock point once near the point then again 2-3 inches away to make a hanging loop.

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Step 8 – Add a pretty embellishment at the bottom (six o’clock point) and admire!

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I’ll be using lots of these to adorn the tops of packages or accompany greeting cards this season.

Thank you so much for dropping by ~ wishing you holiday inspiration!

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sharing with fine craft guild