How to fold a German star for hanging on the tree...

Woven fabric stars make lovely gifts for the tree.

       These old-fashioned stars from Germany may be woven from all kinds of materials: ribbons, paper, straw and fabric. My older daughter chose to use fabric 3/4 by 24 inches long; shown in the photograph just right. Choose two contrasting prints for the best results.

 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Fold four pieces of ribbon, paper or fabric, two light and two dark, in half. (Make each 3/4 by 24 inches long) Interlock to form  basket weave and pull ends tightly.
2. Lift top ribbons; fold one across the other to form second basket weave.
3. Pull ends firmly.
4. Bring one loose end up and slip it through one open side. Turn loop inside out with thumb and forefinger.
5. Pull end through until loop forms point or triangle when creased (see diagram). Repeat with remaining three loose ends. Now you have four star points.
6. Turn star over and repeat steps 4 and 5. Now three are eight star points.
7. To make center standing points, lift and fold back one of the top light-colored strips (A). Take dark strip (B); keeping the right side up, loop the strip counterclockwise and slip it into slot (C) under raised ribbon. Pull through to form a point at (C).
8. Repeat procedure with remaining top strips to make four standing points. Turn star over and repeat steps 7 and 8.
9. Trim extending ribbons.

Step-by-Step Illustrated Process.

 See how to weave stars at YouTube:

• German paper star tutorial by madincrafts here
• Christmas tree farmer shares her own version of the German woven star ornament