How much ribbon do you need for your tree?
A common guide is about 3 yards of ribbon per foot of tree height, so a 7 foot tree takes about 21 yards. That is 3 spools of 10 yard ribbon.
Quick chart
| Tree height | Ribbon | 10 yard spools |
|---|---|---|
| 4 ft | 12 yd | 2 |
| 5 ft | 15 yd | 2 |
| 6 ft | 18 yd | 2 |
| 6.5 ft | 19.5 yd | 2 |
| 7 ft | 21 yd | 3 |
| 7.5 ft | 22.5 yd | 3 |
| 8 ft | 24 yd | 3 |
| 9 ft | 27 yd | 3 |
How this works
Wired ribbon holds its shape on a branch, which is why it is the usual choice for trees. Buy all your spools at once if you can, since colors can change between batches.
The number assumes one ribbon style going around the tree. If you use two ribbons together, work out each one on its own by choosing how much of the look each one covers.
Plan the whole tree with the Christmas Home Planner
Questions
- How much ribbon for a 6 foot tree?
- About 18 yards, which is 2 spools of 10 yards.
- Can I use less?
- Yes. Short pieces tucked into the branches use far less than a long run. Use this as the top of your range.
- What width should I use?
- Choose by eye against your tree: wider ribbon reads better from across a room on a big tree.
More calculators
By Home with June. June is a fictional host. These are rules of thumb and simple arithmetic to help you plan, so adjust by eye.