The right tree topper finishes your Christmas tree with a strong focal point, but choosing one that fits both your tree and your ceiling height takes some planning. Whether you prefer a traditional star or angel, a handmade bow, or an unexpected hat or snowflake, you also need to know how to attach it so it stays straight and secure. This guide covers popular topper styles, sizing guidelines, and practical attachment methods for light and heavy toppers alike.
Sizing a Topper to Your Tree and Ceiling Height
Before you shop for a topper, measure your tree’s top branch or the tip of the trunk. A common rule of thumb is that the topper should be about one-tenth the height of your tree. For a 7-foot tree, that means a topper roughly 8 to 9 inches tall. A topper that is too small will look lost; one that is too large can overwhelm the tree or hit the ceiling.
Ceiling height matters just as much. If your tree sits under a standard 8-foot ceiling, the topper plus the tree’s own height must leave a few inches of clearance. Measure from the floor to the ceiling, then subtract the tree height and the topper height. If the result is less than 4 inches, consider a shorter tree or a slim topper. For very tall trees in rooms with high ceilings, a larger topper can balance the scale.
Also think about the topper’s width. A wide angel or a multi-point star may extend beyond the top branches. Make sure the widest part of the topper does not exceed the diameter of the tree at the topmost third, or it may look top-heavy.
Classic Stars and Angels
Stars and angels are the two most traditional tree toppers. A star works with almost any tree style, from rustic to modern. Look for stars made of metal, wire, plastic, or wood. Some are lit with built-in LEDs, while others are unlit and rely on tree lights for glow. A star with a central opening or a hollow back can slip over the top branch easily.
Angels often have a skirt or a cone-shaped base that rests on the tree’s tip. Many angels are made of porcelain, resin, or fabric. If your angel is heavy, you will need to reinforce the attachment (see the section on heavy toppers below). For a lighter angel, a simple wire or a spiral base may be enough.
Both stars and angels come in a wide range of finishes: matte, glitter, metallic, or painted. Match the topper’s color to your overall Christmas tree color schemes for a cohesive look. For example, a gold star pairs well with warm white lights and red ornaments, while a silver star suits a cool blue-and-white palette.
Bow Toppers and How to Make One
A large, dramatic bow makes a beautiful topper that is also lightweight. You can buy a pre-made bow or make your own using wired ribbon. A bow topper works especially well on trees with a rustic, farmhouse, or Scandinavian theme.
How to Make a Simple Bow Topper
- Choose your ribbon. Wired ribbon holds its shape best. Use a roll about 3 to 4 inches wide. You will need about 3 yards for a full bow.
- Create the loops. Pinch the ribbon at the center and make a loop on one side, about 8 inches long. Twist the ribbon at the center, then make another loop on the opposite side. Repeat until you have 4 to 6 loops on each side.
- Secure the center. Wrap a pipe cleaner or thin wire tightly around the pinched center of the loops. Twist to hold.
- Add tails. Cut two long ribbon tails (about 18 inches each) and attach them to the back of the bow with the same wire. Trim the ends at an angle or in a V-shape.
- Fluff the loops. Separate and shape each loop so the bow looks full and even.
To attach the bow to the tree, use the pipe cleaner or wire from the center to secure it around the top branch. You can also nestle the bow among the top branches so it appears to float. For a more structured look, attach a thin wooden dowel to the back of the bow and insert it into the tree trunk (see the dowel method below).
Floral and Pick Sprays
For a lush, garden-inspired tree, a floral topper or a spray of picks can create a crown of greenery and blooms. These toppers often combine artificial branches, berries, pinecones, and flowers. They are typically sold as a bundle or a spray that you insert into the top of the tree.
When selecting a floral topper, consider the weight. Most sprays are light and can be tucked into the branches without extra support. Heavier arrangements may need a wire or dowel anchor. You can also build your own spray by gathering several ribbon picks, floral stems, and berry clusters and wiring them together.
To attach a spray, simply push the stems deep into the tree’s top branches. If the stems are short, use floral wire to extend them and wrap the wire around a sturdy branch. A picks and sprays set often comes with multiple stems that you can arrange to fan out in a circle or point upward like a star.
Floral toppers work well with nature-inspired color schemes: red and green, white and silver, or even blush and gold. They also pair nicely with a tree skirt made of burlap or faux fur.
Unexpected Toppers: Hats, Snowflakes, Ribbon Bursts
If you want something unique, consider a topper that is not a star or angel. A large snowflake made of wood, metal, or acrylic can give a modern winter look. A Santa hat or a top hat adds whimsy, especially on a tree in a child’s room or a playful living room. A ribbon burst—made by fanning several long wired ribbons out from the top—creates a dramatic, colorful crown.
For a hat topper, you can buy a pre-made hat or use a real hat (like a Santa hat) and stuff it with tissue paper to hold its shape. Attach it by sliding the brim over the top branch or by wiring the hat’s interior to the tree. A snowflake topper often has a central hole or a clip that fits over the top branch. If not, use a wire or a zip tie to secure it.
Ribbon bursts are very easy to make. Cut several lengths of wired ribbon (each about 2 feet long). Gather them at the center and wire them together. Then fan the ribbons out in a circle, curling the ends with scissors. Place the center over the tree tip and secure with wire. This topper is lightweight and adds lots of color.
How to Attach: Spiral Bases, Wire, and Dowel for Heavy Toppers
A secure attachment keeps your topper straight and prevents the tree from leaning. The method you choose depends on the topper’s weight and design.
Spiral Bases
Many store-bought toppers come with a spiral wire base that screws into the top of the tree. Simply insert the spiral into the top branches and twist it down like a corkscrew. This works well for lightweight toppers such as small stars or plastic angels. If the spiral is too loose, wrap it around a central branch or add a twist tie for extra grip.
Wire
For toppers without a built-in base, use floral wire or a pipe cleaner. Wrap the wire around the topper’s base or stem, then wrap the other end around the tree’s top branch. Twist tightly but avoid bending the branch. For heavier toppers, use two or three wires at different angles to distribute the weight.
Dowel or Stake for Heavy Toppers
If your topper is made of ceramic, resin, or heavy metal, it can cause the tree’s top to bend or the whole tree to lean. A wooden dowel or a metal stake provides a strong anchor.
- Choose a dowel long enough to reach well down the top section of the trunk, and thin enough to sit neatly beside it.
- Fix the dowel alongside the top of the trunk with several wraps of wire or zip ties. If the top pole of an artificial tree is hollow you may be able to slide the dowel inside, but never drill into an artificial tree, especially a pre-lit one, which has wiring inside.
- Attach the topper to the dowel. You can drill a hole in the topper’s base and slide it onto the dowel, or use epoxy putty to secure it. Alternatively, wire the topper to the dowel.
- Test for stability. Gently wiggle the topper. If it moves, add a second dowel or use a thicker one.
For extremely heavy toppers, also consider adding a counterweight at the tree’s base or securing the tree stand to the wall with a safety strap. This prevents the entire tree from tipping.
When to Put the Topper On in the Decorating Order
Most decorators place the topper last, after all ornaments and lights are on. However, there are advantages to putting it on earlier. If your topper is large or heavy, installing it before you add ornaments gives you better access to the top branches. You can also run the lights up to the topper and hide the cords more easily.
A practical approach is to attach the topper after you fluff the tree and string the lights, but before you hang ornaments. This way you can adjust the topper’s position without bumping fragile ornaments. If the topper has a built-in light, plug it in and test it before adding ornaments. Then proceed with the rest of your how to decorate a Christmas tree routine.
Lit Toppers and Cord Management
Many stars and angels come with built-in lights. Managing the power cord is essential for a clean look. Most lit toppers have a cord that exits from the back or bottom. Run the cord straight down the trunk, tucking it behind branches. Use small clear zip ties or green twist ties to secure the cord to the trunk at intervals. If the cord is too long, coil the excess near the base and hide it under the tree skirt.
For toppers that plug into a wall outlet, use a power strip with a timer so the topper lights come on and off with the rest of the tree. If your topper uses batteries, make sure the battery compartment is accessible. Some toppers have a remote control, which is convenient for turning the light on and off without reaching the top.
If your topper is not lit, you can still add a small spotlight or a string of fairy lights wrapped around the top branches to highlight it. This is especially effective for dark or matte toppers.
Top Picks to Compare
If you would rather start from a short list, these are popular options on Amazon for this search. Check each listing’s details, size and current price before you buy.
FAQ
What size topper should I get for a 6-foot tree?
A topper about 6 to 7 inches tall is a good proportion for a 6-foot tree. Measure your ceiling height as well to ensure the topper does not touch the ceiling.
How do I keep a heavy topper from making my tree lean?
Use a dowel or stake inserted into the trunk to support the weight. Also make sure the tree stand is sturdy and the tree is centered. If needed, add a counterweight at the base or secure the tree to the wall.
Can I make my own bow topper without wire?
Wired ribbon is easiest, but you can use a non-wired ribbon and secure the center with a pipe cleaner or string. The bow may not hold its shape as well, so fluff it carefully after attaching.
Should I put the topper on before or after the tree skirt?
It does not matter for the topper itself, but you may find it easier to place the tree skirt first so you can stand close to the tree without tripping. Many people add the topper after the lights but before the ornaments, so they can reach the top easily.
Choosing the right tree topper and attaching it securely ensures your Christmas tree looks polished and safe. Whether you go with a classic star, a handmade bow, or a whimsical hat, take the time to size it properly and anchor it well. A well-secured topper will stay straight all season long, letting you enjoy your tree without worry.
