Christmas Tree Toppers

A tree isn't complete without a pretty tree topper. Whether it's a simple bow, a beautiful bouquet, or a traditional star or angel, these tree toppers will inspire your Christmas tree decorating.

A big yellow star is a traditional tree topper, but when made from felt, this ornament becomes the literal star of the show. Cut two identical stars from yellow felt and stitch them together. Stick the star between two top branches. Don't worry about the star being perfect -- imperfections just add to the childish charm.

Show off your kid's sport or academic ribbon by displaying it on the top of the tree. This red ribbon is bold and retro. Haven't earned a big ribbon? Hobby stores and antiques dealers have a wide selection.

This tree topper lends an antique look to your tree. Print a black silhouette on white paper. Cut it out and fit the paper into a gold oval frame. Top with a red bow and let the ribbon hang down for a vintage look.

Editor's Tip: You can create a silhouette by tracing a family member's shadow onto white paper. Create a pattern, resize to fit your frame, and trim from black cardstock.

Wire big green faux hydrangeas to the top of your tree for an impactful tree topper that fits the Christmas color scheme. Let the leaves hang down to draw attention to the seasonal beauty.

A satin gold ribbon tied in a dainty bow to a top branch adds a lavish embellishment to your tree. Let the ends of the ribbon hang down to draw extra attention.

Add a natural feel to your Christmas decorating by tucking long faux pheasant feathers (available at most crafts stores) into the top of the tree. The addition of red berries and a few bird ornaments will have guests flocking to see this woodsy tree. A few hidden clips can help keep the pieces in place.

A traditional angel tree topper adds beauty and grace to a tree. Use one that has been passed down from a family member for a tree full of meaning -- or make your own.

Bright faux flowers are a fun way to add color and interest to a tree. Tie your favorite flowers into a bouquet using floral wire or ribbon. Attach the bouquet to the top branch of your tree using floral wire. Add evergreen sprigs to your bouquet to help the flowers blend in with the tree.

This yummy tree topper makes for a sweet Christmas decoration. The fun red-and-white pattern will fit in with any decorating theme.

Top your tree with the queen of holiday plants. A simple faux white poinsettia tied with floral wire to the top branch is a beautiful way to add a natural and traditional look to your tree. For extra shine, coat the poinsettia with glitter: Make a glue solution and stir in silver glitter. Brush the solution on the edges of the flower.

Make your tree ice cold with a wintry snowflake tree topper. Fold one from paper or crochet one.

Place a Santa ornament at the top of the tree to guard the presents. Pair it with plaid ribbon for a jolly look.

For a look that's perfect for both indoor and outdoor trees, tie a big bow around a cob of red Indian corn. Hot-glue a small red ribbon to the bigger ribbon for a coordinated look. Use a wire to hang the bell from the Indian corn for a natural, musical tree topper.

Craft a star from Tinker Toys for a whimsical and fun tree topper on the cheap. Use only green and red wooden sticks to keep the star festive.

Star tree toppers are always popular. Give yours a twist of style by covering it with strips of Christmas carol sheet music and lines of glitter.

Make this glistening version of the ever-popular star tree topper from lengths of wired pearl beads. Twist five strands of pearls around a 3-inch foam circle to form a five-point star. Stick the pearl sprigs into the foam, and secure them with glue. Cut some pearls from extra sprigs and glue them to the front of the star to fill in the shape.

Make a custom tree topper by inserting narrow sticks into a foam ball. Spray-paint with the color of your choice. When dry, spray with spray adhesive and sprinkle with glitter. Tip: The topper will be most secure if one of the sticks is left long (about 18 inches) so that it can be wired to the tree trunk.

A classic glass topper extends the treetop, making it look taller. The green color and round shape of this one echo the ornaments and green tree.

Wired ribbon is the key to making a bow this large hold its shape. Make a colorful one, as shown, or choose more traditional Christmas colors.

A swirl of peacock feathers tops this tree with unique style. Arrange the feathers in your hand before wiring them together. Leave a length of wire so the bunch can be secured to the top of the tree. Finally, fan out the feathers for a strutting display.