Yule Tree Topper

Christmas trees are often topped with a star representing the Star of Bethlehem, or an angel to represent the Angels that announced the birth of Jesus.

During Yule we celebrate the birth of the Sun, and an appropriate topper for our Yule tree can be a representation of the sun. There are countless beautiful sun images you can purchase to use as toppers. However, if you enjoy making your own ornaments, and especially if you have children who would like to be involved in decorating the Yule tree, here is an easy, beautiful topper you can make with your children. 

You will need:

• Newspaper to cover your table

• 2 white paper plates for each Sun

• hole punch, scissors or sharp stick to poke holes

• 2 or 3 shades of yellow and amber poster paint

• paint brush

• spray-on or stick glue

• gold glitter

• glittery gold buttons, sequins, metallic confetti, etc.

• 12 inches of yellow or gold yarn or twine

SAFETY NOTE: Do not give toddlers tiny buttons or beads to work with. They are choking hazards.

• Draw a picture of the sun on each of the paper plates freehand. Cut out the two sun shapes.

• Paint one side of each of sun. Wait until it dries, then paint the other side. Be creative with the use of your paints.

• When both sides are dry, paste the two shapes together, with the underside of the plates together so that the rays of the sun will bend outward. Punch two holes about 1. 5 inches apart through both plates to string yarn through later.

• Using glue and glitter, go to town decorating your sun. (Many kids will want to draw a face on the sun which is perfectly appropriate. Have them do this before the glitter goes on. )

• String the yarn through the two holes and tie to the top-most branch of your Yule tree.

Be as creative as you like. If you're working with kids, give them free rein. They can make these sun shapes for toppers as well as for decorating around the house.