There’s something magical about a handmade Christmas tree topper—especially one that feels whimsical, soft, and perfectly on-trend. This year, bows are everywhere! You can make your own DIY bow tree topper using lightweight Crayola Model Magic air-dry clay!
This DIY bow tree topper has the charm of a boutique Christmas decor piece and the satisfaction of something you crafted yourself. Model Magic dries beautifully, stays lightweight (so it won’t droop your tree!), and is incredibly easy to shape—even if you’re new to clay.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Bow Tree Topper
- Lightweight – Won’t bend or tip your tree.
- Kid-friendly – Model Magic is soft and mess-free.
- Customizable – Make it in any size, thickness, or color.
- Budget-friendly – No expensive materials or tools required.
- Trendy – Bows are the holiday look for 2025.
SUPPLIES
- Crayola Model Magic (white)
- Acrylic paint
- Rolling pin or smooth glass jar
- Thin wire or twine
STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Lay down parchment paper or a silicone mat. Model Magic won’t stick much, but this makes cleanup even easier. Open your clay and knead it for 20–30 seconds to soften it.
Step 2: Roll Out the Clay
Using a rolling pin or glass jar, roll your clay to about ¼ inch thick.
Thinner clay will be too floppy; thicker clay will take longer to dry and may crack.
Step 3: Form the Bow Loops
Take the long strip and bring the ends toward each other to create the bow
Lightly pinch the middle together. Don’t worry—Model Magic is super forgiving!
Step 4: Shape the Bow Tails
Cut a soft ribbon-style “V” at the bottom of each tail strip.
Gently pinch the top of each strip to create a little gathered effect—it will look more realistic once assembled.
Step 6: Assemble the Bow
Now it’s time to build your topper!
- Place both tails down first, overlapping at the top.
- Position the Bow loops above the tails..
- Wrap your small rectangle around the center, trimming any excess.
The bow is now fully formed!
Step 7: Create a Tree-Topper Attachment
Use a pencil to poke a hole in the back of your bow so you can thread ribbon or twine through.
- To make it extra secure – Hot glue a circle of cardboard over your twine or wire to secure it in place on your bow.
Step 8: Let Your Bow Fully Dry
Model Magic needs 24–48 hours to dry completely.
Set your bow somewhere safe and flat. It will stay super lightweight even when dry!
Step 9: Paint
Once dry, paint your bow:
- Antique gold
- Matte blush pink
- Glossy red
- Candy-pink retro stripes
To get the Antique gold colour I was after, I first painted my bow dark brown and then painted it metallic gold.
DISPLAY YOUR BOW TREE TOPPER
Attach your bow to the top branch using the wire or twine you attached earlier. Step back and admire your handiwork!
Your tree now has a handmade statement piece that looks custom, elegant, and on trend.
FAQ – DIY Bow Tree Topper
Can I use any air dry clay for this bow tree topper?
Model magic works best because it is very lightweight and flexible. You can use other air dry clay, it will just dry much heavier and may crack easily.
How long does the Model Magic Bow take to dry?
Model Magic needs 24-48 hours to fully dry. Larger bows may need 72 hours.
What kind of paint should I use on my clay bow tree topper?
Acrylic paint works best on Model Magic.
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