A friend told me about a dress form Christmas tree idea last December and knew I would be all over it. She was right! I couldn’t wait to make my own mannequin tree this year. Since it’s so unique and feminine, I decided all my Christmas decorations should be a little different. Instead of the usual red and green or gold and white, I’m loving the combination of turquoise, purple, pink and silver. They’re so fresh and pretty.

I was lucky to find an adjustable dress form. Unfortunately, the stand was missing so I had to figure out how to make one.

The solution was a 4-foot artificial tree in a heavy ceramic stand. I removed the branches from the top half and wired the mannequin to the tree’s bare center pole.

Then I headed to the local home improvement store to purchase a plastic garden fence. It’s lighter weight and easier to use than chicken wire. I could cut this material with scissors and I didn’t cut or scratch myself. I used duct tape to attach the fencing at the waistline. You’ll have to cut triangle sections to get a skirt shape. I used plastic cable ties to hold pieces together.

Then dress the mannequin with fir branches from other fake trees. To get a more realistic looking tree, I used branches from several different trees. Bend the top of the branch wire, making a loop and hook onto the fence/skirt.

Shop Goodwill for a jacket or top to fit the mannequin and the style you’re going for. I found a black velveteen jacket that was perfect. I added lace cuffs and replaced the plain buttons with shiny turquoise buttons. I didn’t bother with a blouse underneath, but covered up the ugly dress form top with a piece of sequin fabric in the same colors.

Next I added several strings of light. Then the fun part began by making and finding ornaments to decorate the “skirt.” Besides sparkly silver snowflakes and a few icicle shaped ornaments, I made the rest with glitter and spray paint.

Pour a couple drops of liquid floor cleaner into clear ornaments, add glitter, swirl it around and dump out the excess. Voila, instant glittery Christmas balls! 

For others, I spray painted balls and immediately (before the paint dried) added glitter to the entire ball or just the top.

The finishing touch is the tree skirt. I cut off the tulle lining from a little dress. It’s light and airy and purple. I can’t wait to show off my new tree this Christmas.