This folded book Christmas tree DIY is one of my favorite cozy holiday crafts. It turns an old paperback book into charming Christmas decor using nothing but folds. No cutting machines, no fancy supplies, just a relaxing project you can work on while watching a movie or listening to holiday music.

If you love decorating with neutral, bookish, or handmade touches, this folded book Christmas tree DIY fits right in on a mantel, bookshelf, or entry table.

Why This Folded Book Christmas Tree DIY Works So Well

• Budget friendly and easy to source supplies
• A great way to reuse thrifted or old books
• Simple steps that repeat, making it very calming
• Perfect for book clubs, craft nights, or handmade gifts
• Looks beautiful plain or lightly decorated

Supplies Needed

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• Paperback book with 250-300 pages
• Flat surface for folding
• Optional decorations like twine, pop poms, or a small star topper
• Optional hot glue gun for decorations

Tip: A thicker book creates a fuller looking tree, but almost any paperback will work.

How to Make a Folded Book Christmas Tree

Step 1: Prep the Book

Start by opening your book and finding the center. Gently bend the spine back and forth around the middle so the book can stay open and lie flat while you work. This makes folding much easier later on.

Step 2: Choose Your Starting Point

Count about 40 pages, twenty before the center and twenty after the center. Begin folding pages a little before the center section of the book so the tree shape forms evenly on both sides. Keeping the folds concentrated around the middle helps create that classic Christmas tree silhouette.

Step 3: Fold the Page Into a Triangle

Take one page and fold the top outer corner inward toward the center of the book. Crease it firmly so the fold holds its shape.

Step 4: Fold the Page Again

Next, fold the newly created angled edge back toward the spine so the page forms a pointed shape. If a small flap sticks out at the bottom, simply fold it up so everything stays neat and flush.

Step 5: Repeat the Same Folds

Turn the page and repeat the same folding pattern with the next page. Continue folding page after page using the exact same steps. As you go, you will see the book slowly transform into a tree shape.

Take your time here. This part is repetitive but very relaxing, which is part of what makes this folded book Christmas tree DIY so enjoyable.

Step 6: Shape the Tree

Once you have folded enough pages, gently fan them out and adjust the folds so the tree looks even. Press down on the spine if needed so the tree stands nicely on its own.

Step 7: Decorate If You Want

You can leave your folded book Christmas tree plain for a minimalist look or add simple decorations. Twine wrapped around the pages looks like garland, and a small wooden star glued to the top makes a perfect finishing touch.

Styling Ideas

• Display on a mantel with greenery and candles
• Tuck onto a bookshelf for subtle holiday charm
• Group multiple folded book trees in different sizes
• Gift one with a handwritten holiday tag for a thoughtful touch

FAQs

Will this ruin the book?

Yes. The pages are permanently folded, so use a book you are comfortable repurposing.

What kind of book works best?

Paperback books with lots of pages create the best shape, but any book can work.

Is this a good craft for groups?

Absolutely. This folded book Christmas tree DIY is perfect for book clubs, mom nights, or holiday craft gatherings and is beginner friendly!

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