Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree

Looking for an unusual way to ring in the holidays or simply don’t have any desire to go through the hassle of putting up a Christmas tree this year? Avoid the fuss and muss of tree trimming, while still not looking like a Grinch by creating a stand-up cardboard, light up Christmas tree.

Steps

 * 1) Evaluate your overall size and shape needs. For a small display, a two foot “tree” is perfect. You can make these trees any size you’ll like but take into consideration space and also practicality.  If you have curious children and animals you may want to opt for a table top display instead of something on the ground.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 1.jpg|center]]
 * 2) Cut tree shape from cardboard. Using your straight edge and box cutter, create the desired tree design.  You could go with something simple and geometrical, such as a simple triangle or you can add branches--it all depends on how intricate you want your tree.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 2.jpg|center]]
 * 3) Punch tree holes to make room for the lights. You will be pulling the light bulb portion from the strand through each hole so strategically create holes that are evenly scattered throughout the tree.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 3.jpg|center]]
 * 4) Push lights through each hole. Start at the top of the tree, using the strand end that does not have a plug (so when you finish your plug will be in a position where it can be connected to an outlet).[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 4.jpg|center]]
 * 5) *Be sure you pull each light completely through so it holds snugly in each punched hole.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 4Bullet1.jpg|center]]
 * 6) Create tree support. Measure approximately half of the tree height and the entire tree width to obtain your support measurements. Cut a “T” shape from another piece of cardboard, creating two 3” strips.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 5.jpg|center]]
 * 7) *Fold the bottom of the longer, height strip approximately ½” outward. Then fold down one side of the strip to create a support that will be glued against the tree itself.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 5Bullet1.jpg|center]]
 * 8) *Hot glue the long fold to the middle of the tree back. Hold in place while the glue dries.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 5Bullet2.jpg|center]]
 * 9) *Hot glue the bottom of the folded height strip to the width strip base and hold in place.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Step 5Bullet3.jpg|center]]
 * 10) Finished.[[Image:Create a Light Up Cardboard Christmas Tree Intro.jpg|center]]

Tips

 * Add a few lightweight ornaments to your tree. Instead of pulling a light through a punched hole, add an ornament and hanger instead.
 * If you plan to repurpose a light set, test it to ensure lights work before use.

Things You’ll Need

 * Plain corrugated cardboard (can be any color)
 * Hole punch (make sure you pick one up that can be used on heavy cardboard)
 * String(s) of lights (your choice--white or multiple colored). Use small or mini bulb lights.
 * Box cutter
 * Straight edge
 * Hot glue

Sources and Citations

 * http://thechicsite.com/2013/10/15/15-ways-to-light-your-party/